1976 Fiat 126 vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (208 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 770 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse (278 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 126 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 62 L |
