1976 Fiat 126 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volkswagen Golf (59 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 225 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1979 Volkswagen Golf (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1979 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 45 L |
