1972 Fiat 132 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 132. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 132. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 260 kg more than 1972 Fiat 132. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 132 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 132. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 132. (145 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 132. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1972 Fiat 132 has manual transmission. 1972 Fiat 132 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 132 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 132 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
