1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 9 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 1,468 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer (74 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 417 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, 1989 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, 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer (113 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1989 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 126 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2390 mm |
