1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Renault Clio
To start off, 2002 Renault Clio 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Clio (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Clio weights approximately 445 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, 2002 Renault Clio, 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, 2002 Renault Clio (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126. 2002 Renault Clio 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 Renault Clio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2002 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 126 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2480 mm |
