1973 Fiat 132 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 132 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 132 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 155 kg more than 1973 Fiat 132.
Because 1973 Fiat 132 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 132. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 132. (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 132.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 132 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 132 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1754 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
