1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 33 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 745 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 126 | Astra |
Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 594 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 23 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 39 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 80.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 88.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 52 L |