1999 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1976 Fiat 126
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,369 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 (104 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 (124 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1976 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 145 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1369 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 20 L |
