1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Mazda 626 is newer by 17 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 605 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, 1997 Mazda 626, 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, 1997 Mazda 626 (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Fiat 126 | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 126 | 626 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |