1970 Fiat 124 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 354 kg more than 1970 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 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 (240 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Fiat 124 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1592 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
