1973 Fiat 126 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,093 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Golf (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 176 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 126 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 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Volkswagen Golf (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Fiat 126 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 126 | Golf |
Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 594 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 23 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 39 Nm | 77 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 756 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 45 L |