2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Fiat 126
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 925 kg more than 1981 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 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 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
