1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 22 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1000 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | C |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
