1973 Fiat 124 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 465 kg more than 1973 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 124. 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 (165 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (87 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 124 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
