1982 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 575 kg more than 1982 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 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 (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 126 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2470 mm |
