1997 Fiat Brava vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 1997 Fiat Brava is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,370 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Fiat Brava is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Fiat Brava (79 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Brava should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Fiat Brava weights approximately 460 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Fiat Brava (113 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Fiat Brava will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Brava | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Brava | 126 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 20 L |
