1974 Fiat 124 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 408 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 70 L |
