2002 Dodge Stratus vs. 1976 Fiat 126
To start off, 2002 Dodge Stratus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Stratus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Stratus (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Stratus weights approximately 800 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Stratus, 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 Dodge Stratus (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Stratus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Stratus | 1976 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Dodge | Fiat |
| Model | Stratus | 126 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 20 L |
