1981 Fiat 126 vs. 1986 Mazda 323
To start off, 1986 Mazda 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,071 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda 323 (53 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mazda 323 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1981 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 323, 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, 1986 Mazda 323 (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 126 | 1986 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1071 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
