1996 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Renault Espace 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 2,963 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Espace (166 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 1005 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 Renault Espace, 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 Renault Espace (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126. 1997 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 126 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 2963 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
