1952 Fiat 1900 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Fiat 1900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Fiat 1900 would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1952 Fiat 1900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Fiat 1900 (52 HP @ 3700 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Fiat 1900 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Fiat 1900 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 Fiat 1900 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 1952 Fiat 1900. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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. Let's talk about torque, 1952 Fiat 1900 (131 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1952 Fiat 1900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Fiat 1900 | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1900 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 40 L |
