1983 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 820 kg more than 1983 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 126 | 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 126 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 650 cc | 2349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2570 mm |
