1974 Fiat 124 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 2,169 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (123 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 575 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 124 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 1974 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 61 L |
