1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (60 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 15 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1972 Fiat 124 (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 45 L |
