2002 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 24 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 690 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, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Audi A3 | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
Make | Audi | Fiat |
Model | A3 | 126 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 651 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 42 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 70 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1390 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 1850 mm |