2001 Audi A3 vs. 1984 Fiat 126
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1984 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1984 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1984 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Audi | Fiat |
| Model | A3 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 1850 mm |
