1981 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Astra weights approximately 565 kg more than 1981 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden 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, 2003 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 126 | 2003 Holden Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Holden |
Model | 126 | Astra |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
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 | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |