1983 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Vectra (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1983 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Vectra weights approximately 900 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 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, 2005 Opel Vectra (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat 126. 2005 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1983 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1983 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat 126 | 2005 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 650 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2840 mm |
