1988 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Fiat Palio
To start off, 2003 Fiat Palio is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Palio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Palio (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Palio should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Palio weights approximately 257 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, 2003 Fiat Palio, 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, 2003 Fiat Palio (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Palio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 2003 Fiat Palio | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Palio |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2380 mm |
