1989 Citroen XM vs. 1979 Fiat 126
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen XM (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 835 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, 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, 1989 Citroen XM (235 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126. 1989 Citroen XM has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Citroen XM will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Citroen XM | 1979 Fiat 126 | |
Make | Citroen | Fiat |
Model | XM | 126 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2975 cc | 652 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 235 Nm | 42 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 70 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1390 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 1850 mm |