1974 Fiat 124 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 320 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1974 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1974 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 124 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |
