1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Renault Clio
To start off, 2006 Renault Clio is newer by 26 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Clio (194 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Clio weights approximately 750 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, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Clio (215 Nm @ 5550 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2006 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 126 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93 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 | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2590 mm |
