2008 Fiat Punto vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Fiat Punto is newer by 11 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Punto. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 115 kg more than 2008 Fiat Punto. 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 Punto (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 Fiat Punto has manual transmission. 2008 Fiat Punto will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Punto | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Punto | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
