1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (74 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 385 kg more than 1981 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 127 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1300 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 56 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
