1996 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 561 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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 Audi A3 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Audi | Fiat |
| Model | A3 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 1850 mm |
