1988 Fiat 126 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1988 Fiat 126 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta (53 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 227 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, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1984 Volkswagen Jetta (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1984 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 72 mm |
| 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 | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2480 mm |
