1973 Fiat 126 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 23 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), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 570 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, 1996 Opel Astra, 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, 1996 Opel Astra (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Fiat 126 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 126 | Astra |
Year Released | 1973 | 1996 |
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 | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 39 Nm | 128 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 69.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |