2007 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1978 Fiat 126
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 29 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 945 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Spider (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1978 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Fiat |
| Model | Spider | 126 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 1850 mm |
