1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 801 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (236 Nm) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2550 mm |
