1972 Fiat 128 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 128. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 128 would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 128 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 128 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Fiat 128 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1972 Fiat 128 (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Fiat 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 128 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 128 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
