1996 Fiat 126 vs. 1984 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1996 Fiat 126 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lancia Thema. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lancia Thema would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lancia Thema (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lancia Thema weights approximately 505 kg more than 1996 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Lancia Thema, 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, 1984 Lancia Thema (290 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1984 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 1984 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 126 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.0:1 |
| 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 | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
