2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Fiat 126
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (147 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 20 L |
