1990 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 15 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 1,423 cc (3 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1990 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1990 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 415 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (115 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Fiat 126 | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1423 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1060 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
