1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2002 Opel Vectra is newer by 24 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Vectra (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126.
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, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Vectra (251 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 126 | 2002 Opel Vectra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 126 | Vectra |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 651 cc | 1994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |