1941 Fiat 500 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 58 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1941 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1941 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1941 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1941 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 731 kg more than 1941 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1941 Fiat 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1941 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1941 Fiat 500 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1941 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2510 mm |
