2008 Fiat 500 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Fiat 500 (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat 500 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2008 Fiat 500 (131 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat 500 | 1977 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 45 L |
