1991 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1991 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1991 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3, 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Fiat 126 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
