1973 Fiat 124 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 310 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 124 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
