1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster 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, 2010 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. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
