1960 Fiat 1200 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1960 Fiat 1200. (57 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1960 Fiat 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 495 kg more than 1960 Fiat 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Fiat 1200 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 1960 Fiat 1200. 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 (165 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Fiat 1200. (84 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Fiat 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Fiat 1200 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1200 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1221 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 55 L |
