1993 Fiat 126 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (103 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1993 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1993 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 585 kg more than 1993 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Fiat 126 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 702 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
