1981 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 25 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 1,241 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 2 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 2 weights approximately 540 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, 2006 Mazda 2, 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 Mazda 2 (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 126 | 2006 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2500 mm |
