1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 390 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124.
Because 1972 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 1972 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 (250 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (152 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 124 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 124 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 250 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |