2006 Fiat Idea vs. 1972 Fiat 126
To start off, 2006 Fiat Idea is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,248 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Fiat Idea (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Fiat Idea weights approximately 570 kg more than 1972 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Fiat Idea, 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 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Fiat Idea | 1972 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Idea | 126 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 159 km/hour | 105 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 20 L |
