1988 Fiat 126 vs. 1975 Simca 1309
To start off, 1988 Fiat 126 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Simca 1309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Simca 1309 would be higher. At 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Simca 1309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Simca 1309 (83 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Simca 1309 should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Simca 1309 weights approximately 408 kg more than 1988 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Fiat 126 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Simca 1309, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1975 Simca 1309 (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1975 Simca 1309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 1975 Simca 1309 | |
| Make | Fiat | Simca |
| Model | 126 | 1309 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 58 L |
