1996 Fiat 126 vs. 1989 Holden Barina
To start off, 1996 Fiat 126 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Barina would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Holden Barina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Barina (67 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Barina should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Barina weights approximately 85 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, 1989 Holden Barina, 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, 1989 Holden Barina (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Barina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 1989 Holden Barina | |
| Make | Fiat | Holden |
| Model | 126 | Barina |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2250 mm |
