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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (169 HP) has 110 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 419 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 (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). 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 | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 169 HP |
Torque | 87 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1349 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |