1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2002 Opel Zafira 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Zafira (102 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Zafira weights approximately 805 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, 2002 Opel Zafira, 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 Zafira (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Zafira 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 Zafira | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2700 mm |
