1994 Citroen XM vs. 1974 Fiat 126
To start off, 1994 Citroen XM is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Citroen XM (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Citroen XM weights approximately 815 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Citroen XM (180 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1994 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Citroen XM | 1974 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | XM | 126 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 20 L |
