1974 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (69 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 585 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 45 L |
