2006 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (200 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Chevrolet Impala (298 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126. 2006 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Impala | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Impala | 126 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 1850 mm |
