1976 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 36 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 785 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 126 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4572 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 59 L |
