1990 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1990 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1990 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 945 kg more than 1990 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (279 Nm) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Fiat 126. (49 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Fiat 126 | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 2770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
