1962 Fiat 1300 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1975 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Fiat 1300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Fiat 1300 (64 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Fiat 1300 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Fiat 1300 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Fiat 1300 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 1962 Fiat 1300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1962 Fiat 1300 (93 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Fiat 1300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Fiat 1300 | 1975 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1300 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
