2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1979 Fiat 126
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (198 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1979 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | 159 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 1850 mm |
