1973 Fiat 132 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 132. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 132. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 140 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, 2011 Volkswagen 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 132. (144 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 132. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 132 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 132 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Fiat 132 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 132 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1755 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |