1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 30 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 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 1025 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, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 60 L |
