Personally I really like the 124 cars. All the power and such of the 126's and 20% less weight and bulk. Better handling and better mileage. Other than being a bit "boomier" than the 126 at speed the 124 wagon I have is just like the other 3 I've owned, quick enough to be fun, stable enough to be a bit more fun and enough power to get it back when your fun tries to slide away.
I also replace l/f seat bottems at 1/10th the rate of 126 cars.
123 cars are cool but lousy highway cars, 617 powered cars in general fall into this area. Wound too tight, too noisey, a bit jumpy in turbulance and in general unhappy in that enviroment. Around town, short hops, commuters, absolutly wonderful little cars.
True highway cruisers, the long wheelbase 126 cars, set the cruise on 90 and roll. Quiet, smooth and comfortable. Says it all.
So, it depends on what you want one for.
123, around town, short hop car.
126, highway crusier
124, the best blend of both
Joe