1973 Fiat 126 vs. 1989 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1989 Opel Kadett is newer by 16 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Opel Kadett (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126.
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, 1989 Opel Kadett, 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, 1989 Opel Kadett (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1989 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 1989 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
