1996 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 16 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 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 720 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Fiat | Chevrolet |
| Model | 126 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 48 L |
