1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 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 1,756 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 179 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1756 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2590 mm |
