1961 Fiat 1300 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (150 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 1300. (64 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 252 kg more than 1961 Fiat 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 1300 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 1961 Fiat 1300. 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 (202 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 1300. (93 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 1300 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1300 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
