2006 Fiat Panda vs. 1985 Fiat 126
To start off, 2006 Fiat Panda is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1985 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Fiat Panda weights approximately 272 kg more than 1985 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Fiat Panda, 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 Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Fiat Panda | 1985 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 126 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 588 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 1850 mm |
