1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2002 Opel Vectra is newer by 29 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Vectra weights approximately 900 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, 2002 Opel Vectra, 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, 2002 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2002 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 52 L |
