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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 132. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 132. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 245 kg more than 1973 Fiat 132. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 132. (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 132.
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 | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.8:1 |
| 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 | 1340 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 |
