> I think the last machine where that was true was the 8086. The last machine with a word size of 16 bits? The 286 was as well. There were others like the WDC

> I think the last machine where that was true was the 8086. The last machine with a word size of 16 bits? The 286 was as well. There were others like the WDC 65816 (the Apple IIgs and SNES CPU). It just so happens that there simply far fewer 16 bit CPUs then there were 8 or 32 (or “32/16” like the 68k). Also 8 bit CPUs are simply a poor fit for C by their nature and the assumptions C makes. But the numerous ones still relevant today will use 16 bit ints. The use of Real or V86 mode on the x86 went on for many years after the demise of the 8086. I think it is a somewhat of a joke at this point that they’re teaching Turbo C in some developing countries.