1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1987 Mazda MX-6
To start off, 1987 Mazda MX-6 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,182 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda MX-6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda MX-6 (145 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda MX-6 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda MX-6 weights approximately 653 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mazda MX-6, 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, 1987 Mazda MX-6 (257 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda MX-6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1987 Mazda MX-6 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | MX-6 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2182 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1238 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |
