1972 Fiat 850 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 850.
Because 1972 Fiat 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 850 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 850 | Golf |
Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 69 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2520 mm |