1974 Fiat 124 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 255 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 2005 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 45 L |
