1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Vauxhall Meriva
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Meriva is newer by 23 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Vauxhall Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Vauxhall Meriva (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall Meriva should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Meriva weights approximately 690 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, 2002 Vauxhall Meriva, 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 Vauxhall Meriva (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 126 | 2002 Vauxhall Meriva | |
Make | Fiat | Vauxhall |
Model | 126 | Meriva |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 138 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2640 mm |