2009 BMW X3 vs. 1981 Fiat 126
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 28 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 1145 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 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1981 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | X3 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 1850 mm |
