1978 Fiat 126 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 510 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Opel Astra (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2640 mm |
