2003 Citroen C2 vs. 1987 Fiat 126
To start off, 2003 Citroen C2 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,124 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen C2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen C2 (58 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1987 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C2 should accelerate faster than 1987 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C2 weights approximately 351 kg more than 1987 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C2, 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, 2003 Citroen C2 (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C2 | 1987 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | C2 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 1850 mm |
