1971 Fiat 128 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 128. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 128 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 128. (63 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 128. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 140 kg more than 1971 Fiat 128. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Volkswagen Polo (129 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 128. (83 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 128. 2001 Volkswagen Polo has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 128 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 128 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 128 | 2001 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 128 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
