2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1988 Fiat 126
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,124 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen C3 (59 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C3 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1988 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Citroen C3 (95 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1988 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | C3 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 703 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 49 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 648 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
