1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Kia Rio
To start off, 2012 Kia Rio is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Rio (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Rio weights approximately 546 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Rio, 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, 2012 Kia Rio (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2012 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Fiat | Kia |
| Model | 126 | Rio |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1126 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4046 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 43 L |
