1987 Fiat 126 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 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 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1987 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 705 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, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2578 mm |
