1977 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 685 kg more than 1977 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall 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, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (153 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 126 | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Vauxhall |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| 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 | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
