1954 Fiat 1100 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Fiat 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Fiat 1100 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1954 Fiat 1100. (49 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 Fiat 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 426 kg more than 1954 Fiat 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Fiat 1100 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 1954 Fiat 1100. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Fiat 1100. (73 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Fiat 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Fiat 1100 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1100 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1089 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2400 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 | 805 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
