2001 Skoda Fabia vs. 1989 Skoda L
To start off, 2001 Skoda Fabia is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Skoda L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Skoda L would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Skoda Fabia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Skoda Fabia (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1989 Skoda L. (58 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Skoda Fabia should accelerate faster than 1989 Skoda L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Skoda Fabia weights approximately 185 kg more than 1989 Skoda L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Skoda L 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 1989 Skoda L. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Skoda Fabia, 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 Skoda Fabia (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Skoda L. (90 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2001 Skoda Fabia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Skoda L.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Skoda Fabia | 1989 Skoda L | |
| Make | Skoda | Skoda |
| Model | Fabia | L |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 1221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
