2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1990 Fiat 126
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,969 cc, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1990 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1990 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1990 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 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 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1990 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 703 cc |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 49 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 645 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
