1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2012 Opel Meriva 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 1,248 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Meriva (94 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126.
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 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, 2012 Opel Meriva (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Meriva 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 Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
