1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2005 Nissan Micra is newer by 25 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 1,386 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Micra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Micra (88 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Micra should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Micra weights approximately 462 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, 2005 Nissan Micra, 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, 2005 Nissan Micra (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Micra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2005 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | 126 | Micra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1386 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1047 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2440 mm |
