1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 MG TF
To start off, 2003 MG TF is newer by 23 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG TF is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG TF (114 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG TF should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG TF weights approximately 585 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, 2003 MG TF (145 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 MG TF will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2003 MG TF | |
| Make | Fiat | MG |
| Model | 126 | TF |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2380 mm |
