1971 Fiat 124 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 448 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Fiat 124 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 124 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
Torque | 87 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1378 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |