1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2012 Fiat Idea is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Idea. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 89 kg more than 2012 Fiat Idea. 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, 2012 Fiat Idea (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Golf | Idea |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2323 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1239 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 47 L |
