1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2006 Mini Cooper is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mini Cooper (207 HP @ 6950 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mini Cooper weights approximately 635 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, 2006 Mini Cooper, 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, 2006 Mini Cooper (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2006 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 126 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6950 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 50 L |
