1985 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1985 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 710 kg more than 1985 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Fiat 126. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1985 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1985 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Fiat 126 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 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 | 588 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2500 mm |
