1958 Fiat 1200 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1958 Fiat 1200. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1958 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 235 kg more than 1958 Fiat 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Fiat 1200 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 1958 Fiat 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Fiat 1200. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Fiat 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Fiat 1200 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1200 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1221 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 55 L |
