1981 Fiat 126 vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is newer by 17 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 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star weights approximately 730 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (174 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 126 | 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 126 | Space Star |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2510 mm |
