1989 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (267 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1989 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 835 kg more than 1989 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Fiat 126 | 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 126 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 74 L |
