1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Mazda MPV
To start off, 2008 Mazda MPV is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MPV (134 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MPV weights approximately 1125 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MPV, 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, 2008 Mazda MPV (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2008 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | MPV |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2850 mm |
