2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1981 Fiat 126
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen C3 (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 512 kg more than 1981 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3, 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 C3 (120 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Citroen C3 | 1981 Fiat 126 | |
Make | Citroen | Fiat |
Model | C3 | 126 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1398 cc | 652 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 67 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 120 Nm | 42 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1097 kg | 585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1390 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 1850 mm |