1973 Fiat 124 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 39 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 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (84 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (60 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 506 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
