1989 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1989 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 748 kg more than 1989 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Fiat 126 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
