1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 40 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP) has 173 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 491 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 232 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
