1972 Fiat 125 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 125. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 125 would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 125. (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 125. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 371 kg more than 1972 Fiat 125. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 125 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 125. 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 (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 125. (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 125. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1972 Fiat 125 has manual transmission. 1972 Fiat 125 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 125 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 125 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |