1989 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Renault Clio
To start off, 2003 Renault Clio 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Clio (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1989 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Clio weights approximately 385 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 1989 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 1989 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Renault Clio, 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 Renault Clio (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat 126. 2003 Renault Clio has automatic transmission and 1989 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1989 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Renault Clio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Fiat 126 | 2003 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 126 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| 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 | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
