1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 756 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
