2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 25 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 1,970 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 835 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
Model | 166 | 126 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 651 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 42 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1390 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1850 mm |