2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 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 (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 652 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 | 305 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1850 mm |
