1988 Fiat 126 vs. 1991 Mini MK VI
To start off, 1991 Mini MK VI is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 998 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mini MK VI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mini MK VI (41 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mini MK VI should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Fiat 126 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1991 Mini MK VI.
Because 1988 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 1988 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Mini MK VI, 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, 1991 Mini MK VI (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1991 Mini MK VI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 1991 Mini MK VI | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 126 | MK VI |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2040 mm |
