2004 Fiat Idea vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Fiat Idea is newer by 7 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 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 44 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Idea. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Idea | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
