1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1993 Opel Calibra
To start off, 1993 Opel Calibra is newer by 13 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 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Opel Calibra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Opel Calibra (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Opel Calibra should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Opel Calibra weights approximately 630 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, 1993 Opel Calibra, 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, 1993 Opel Calibra (227 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Opel Calibra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 1993 Opel Calibra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Calibra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 227 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
