1956 Fiat 1400 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Fiat 1400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Fiat 1400 would be higher. At 1,900 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Fiat 1400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Golf (49 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1956 Fiat 1400. (38 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1956 Fiat 1400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Fiat 1400 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1956 Fiat 1400 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 1956 Fiat 1400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1956 Fiat 1400 (134 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm). This means 1956 Fiat 1400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Fiat 1400 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1400 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1900 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
