1996 Fiat Brava vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 1996 Fiat Brava is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,369 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat Brava is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat Brava (79 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Brava should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat Brava weights approximately 455 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Brava, 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, 1996 Fiat Brava (113 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat Brava will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Brava | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Brava | 126 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1369 cc | 651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
