1983 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 615 kg more than 1983 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 126 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 650 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 | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
