1953 Citroen 2CV vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 1973 Fiat 126 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 594 cc (2 cylinders), 1973 Fiat 126 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 126 (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1953 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 126 should accelerate faster than 1953 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Fiat 126 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1953 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1953 Citroen 2CV, 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, 1973 Fiat 126 (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1973 Fiat 126 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Citroen 2CV | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | 2CV | 126 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 375 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 20 L |
