2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Fiat 126
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1972 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 20 L |
