1971 Fiat 124 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 450 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
