2009 Citroen C1 vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 2009 Citroen C1 is newer by 29 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 996 cc (3 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C1 (67 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C1 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C1 weights approximately 887 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, 2009 Citroen C1, 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, 2009 Citroen C1 (93 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C1 | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | C1 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1472 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3440 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 1850 mm |
