1968 Fiat 124 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 124 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) has 121 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 453 kg more than 1968 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 124 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 1968 Fiat 124. 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 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 124. (89 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Fiat 124 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 124 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1968 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 180 HP |
Torque | 89 Nm | 235 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1363 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |