2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1973 Fiat 126
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (108 HP) has 85 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 579 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1973 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | C3 | 126 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 23 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 39 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1159 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 20 L |
