1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 234 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1264 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |