1970 Fiat 124 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Fiat 124 (59 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Fiat 124 weights approximately 208 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Fiat 124 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 1970 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1970 Fiat 124 (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1970 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Fiat 124 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 40 L |
