2009 Fiat 500 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat 500 (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat 500 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1974 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. 1974 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 2009 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat 500 | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 45 L |
