1996 Fiat 126 vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (152 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 705 kg more than 1996 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (199 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 126 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 58 L |
