1966 Fiat 500 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1966 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 810 kg more than 1966 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Fiat 500 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 1966 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Fiat 500 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 22 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 36 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
