1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1988 Opel Vectra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Opel Vectra (56 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Opel Vectra weights approximately 535 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Opel Vectra, 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, 1988 Opel Vectra (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |
