1988 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2012 Fiat Idea is newer by 24 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat Idea (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat Idea weights approximately 502 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, 2012 Fiat Idea, 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, 2012 Fiat Idea (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 2012 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 126 | Idea |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 47 L |
