2001 Citroen C5 vs. 1976 Fiat 126

To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C5 (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen C5 weights approximately 968 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5, 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, 2001 Citroen C5 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Citroen C5 1976 Fiat 126
Make Citroen Fiat
Model C5 126
Year Released 2001 1976
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 2946 cc 594 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 207 HP 23 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4700 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 39 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 73.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.6 mm 70 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.9:1 7.5:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1548 kg 580 kg
Vehicle Length 4760 mm 3130 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1380 mm
Vehicle Height 1520 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 1850 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 20 L