1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Fiat 126
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 805 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Malibu | 126 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 1850 mm |
