1968 Abarth 1300 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1968 Abarth 1300. (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1968 Abarth 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 630 kg more than 1968 Abarth 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Abarth 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 1968 Abarth 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 (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Abarth 1300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Abarth 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Abarth 1300 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1300 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 670 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
