1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1974 Fiat 126
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 25 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 635 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 146 (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1974 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 146 | 126 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 20 L |
