1992 Fiat 126 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1992 Fiat 126 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,093 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Polo (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1992 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1992 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 37 kg more than 1992 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 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 1992 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Volkswagen Polo (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Fiat 126 | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 35 L |
