1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 33 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 1040 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, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 126 | Astra |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 88.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1625 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |