1972 Fiat 124 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 24 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 69 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, 1996 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2410 mm |
