1972 Fiat 128 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 128. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 128. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 420 kg more than 1972 Fiat 128. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 128. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 128.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 128 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 128 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
