1994 Fiat 126 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1994 Fiat 126 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Opel Kadett (52 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1994 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1994 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Opel Kadett weights approximately 190 kg more than 1994 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Opel Kadett, 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, 1979 Opel Kadett (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1979 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Fiat 126 | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 126 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 7.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 42 L |
