2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 3,354 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 987 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (277 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126. 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Monte Carlo | 126 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3354 cc | 651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 1850 mm |
