1973 Fiat 132 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 1,754 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Fiat 132 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 132 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 132 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 64 kg more than 1973 Fiat 132.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 132. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1973 Fiat 132 (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Fiat 132 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 132 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 132 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1754 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
