2003 Daihatsu Charade vs. 1982 Fiat 126
To start off, 2003 Daihatsu Charade is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 989 cc (3 cylinders), 2003 Daihatsu Charade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Daihatsu Charade (57 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Daihatsu Charade should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Daihatsu Charade weights approximately 160 kg more than 1982 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Daihatsu Charade, 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 Daihatsu Charade (90 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Daihatsu Charade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 126. 2003 Daihatsu Charade has automatic transmission and 1982 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1982 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Daihatsu Charade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Daihatsu Charade | 1982 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Fiat |
| Model | Charade | 126 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 989 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 745 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 1850 mm |
