1983 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 22 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 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 665 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, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 650 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3010 mm |
