1989 Fiat 126 vs. 1996 Proton Saloon
To start off, 1996 Proton Saloon is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Proton Saloon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton Saloon (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1989 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton Saloon should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton Saloon weights approximately 305 kg more than 1989 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Proton Saloon, 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, 1996 Proton Saloon (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Proton Saloon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Fiat 126 | 1996 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | Fiat | Proton |
| Model | 126 | Saloon |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| 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 | 645 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2390 mm |
