1988 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Renault Megane is newer by 20 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Megane (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Megane weights approximately 712 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, 2008 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 2008 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 126 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
