1959 Fiat 1100 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1100 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 1100. (43 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 493 kg more than 1959 Fiat 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Fiat 1100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 1100. (73 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fiat 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Fiat 1100 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1100 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1089 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
