1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP) has 77 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Fiat 124 weights approximately 266 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 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, 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, 1972 Fiat 124 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
