1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma weights approximately 814 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma, 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 Mitsubishi Carisma (265 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2005 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 126 | Carisma |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 60 L |
