1976 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 735 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 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 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.5 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 | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 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 |
