2000 Chrysler Neon vs. 1979 Fiat 126
To start off, 2000 Chrysler Neon is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Chrysler Neon (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 555 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler Neon, 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, 2000 Chrysler Neon (155 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Chrysler Neon | 1979 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | Neon | 126 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1850 mm |
