1982 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 918 kg more than 1982 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 126 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1503 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
