2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C3 weights approximately 473 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Citroen C3 (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | C3 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1058 kg | 585 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1850 mm |
