1973 Fiat 126 vs. 1962 Mini Countryman
To start off, 1973 Fiat 126 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mini Countryman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mini Countryman would be higher. At 846 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Mini Countryman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Mini Countryman (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Mini Countryman should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mini Countryman weights approximately 80 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. 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, 1962 Mini Countryman, 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, 1962 Mini Countryman (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1962 Mini Countryman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 1962 Mini Countryman | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 126 | Countryman |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 846 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2140 mm |
