1988 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Toyota Echo
To start off, 2003 Toyota Echo 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 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Toyota Echo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Toyota Echo (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Echo should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Echo weights approximately 307 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 Toyota Echo, 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 Toyota Echo (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Echo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126. 2003 Toyota Echo has automatic transmission and 1988 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1988 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Echo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 2003 Toyota Echo | |
| Make | Fiat | Toyota |
| Model | 126 | Echo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
