1981 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 655 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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 126 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2650 mm |
