2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1976 Fiat 126
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (149 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 1035 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1976 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 156 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 20 L |
