1996 Fiat 126 vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 17 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 731 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
