1988 Fiat 126 vs. 2011 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2011 Opel Meriva is newer by 23 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Meriva (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126.
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, 2011 Opel Meriva, 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, 2011 Opel Meriva (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 2011 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
