1972 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 990 kg more than 1972 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6, 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 68 L |
