2009 Dacia Sandero vs. 1980 Fiat 126
To start off, 2009 Dacia Sandero 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dacia Sandero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dacia Sandero (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dacia Sandero should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dacia Sandero weights approximately 526 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 Dacia Sandero, 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 Dacia Sandero (112 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dacia Sandero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dacia Sandero | 1980 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Dacia | Fiat |
| Model | Sandero | 126 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1111 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1850 mm |
