1971 Fiat 500 vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1971 Fiat 500 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Volkswagen Beetle (34 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 290 kg more than 1971 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 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:
| 1971 Fiat 500 | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 497 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 42 L |
