1988 Fiat 126 vs. 1999 Opel Astra
To start off, 1999 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Astra (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Astra weights approximately 542 kg more than 1988 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 1999 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
