1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1992 Opel Astra
To start off, 1992 Opel Astra is newer by 12 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Opel Astra (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Opel Astra weights approximately 460 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, 1992 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, 1992 Opel Astra (189 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1992 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
