2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 951 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
Model | 156 | 126 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 651 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 42 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 70 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1390 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 1850 mm |