1996 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Fiat Punto
To start off, 1997 Fiat Punto is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,108 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Fiat Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Fiat Punto (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Punto should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Fiat Punto weights approximately 195 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, 1997 Fiat Punto, 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, 1997 Fiat Punto (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Fiat Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Fiat 126 | 1997 Fiat Punto | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 126 | Punto |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 704 cc | 1108 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 25 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 49 Nm | 83 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 70 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 840 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2470 mm |