1981 Fiat 126 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 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 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 1086 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.
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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 126 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 126 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1835 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 155 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 171 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1671 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2270 mm |