2001 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1977 Fiat 126
To start off, 2001 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 659 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Daihatsu Copen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Daihatsu Copen (62 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Daihatsu Copen should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Daihatsu Copen weights approximately 212 kg more than 1977 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Daihatsu Copen, 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 Daihatsu Copen (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Daihatsu Copen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Daihatsu Copen | 1977 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Fiat |
| Model | Copen | 126 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 61 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 56.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 1850 mm |
