1990 Fiat 126 vs. 1975 Mini MK I
To start off, 1990 Fiat 126 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mini MK I would be higher. At 1,098 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Mini MK I is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mini MK I (48 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1990 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mini MK I should accelerate faster than 1990 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mini MK I weights approximately 5 kg more than 1990 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Mini MK I, 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, 1975 Mini MK I (81 Nm @ 2450 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1975 Mini MK I will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Fiat 126 | 1975 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 126 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2040 mm |
