1969 Fiat 850 vs. 1957 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1969 Fiat 850 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Fiat 850 (51 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Fiat 850 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 5 kg more than 1969 Fiat 850.
Because 1969 Fiat 850 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 1969 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 850 | 1957 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1560 mm |
