1979 Fiat 126 vs. 1993 Opel Astra
To start off, 1993 Opel Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Opel Astra (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Opel Astra weights approximately 490 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Opel Astra (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 1993 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 77.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
