1970 Fiat 124 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 355 kg more than 1970 Fiat 124. 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, 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 (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (126 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Fiat 124 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make Fiat Volkswagen
Model 124 Golf
Year Released 1970 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1592 cc 2324 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 95 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 126 Nm 205 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 960 kg 1315 kg
Vehicle Length 4070 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2520 mm