1988 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 MG ZR
To start off, 2003 MG ZR is newer by 15 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG ZR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG ZR (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG ZR weights approximately 372 kg more than 1988 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 MG ZR, 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, 2003 MG ZR (123 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 MG ZR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 2003 MG ZR | |
| Make | Fiat | MG |
| Model | 126 | ZR |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
