1989 Dodge Spirit vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 1989 Dodge Spirit is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Spirit (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 731 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1989 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Spirit | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Spirit | 126 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 1850 mm |
