1992 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1992 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1992 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 867 kg more than 1992 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 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 1992 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Fiat 126 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
