2003 Fiat Palio vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 2003 Fiat Palio is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Palio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Palio (79 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Palio should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Palio weights approximately 530 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Palio, 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 Fiat Palio (196 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Palio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Palio | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Palio | 126 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 1850 mm |
