1987 Fiat 126 vs. 2010 Opel Astra
To start off, 2010 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1987 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1987 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Opel Astra weights approximately 645 kg more than 1987 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Opel Astra (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Fiat 126 | 2010 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 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 | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 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 | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
