1987 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1987 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 711 kg more than 1987 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Fiat 126 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
