1974 Fiat 133 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 133. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 133 would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 133. (34 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 133. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 540 kg more than 1974 Fiat 133. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 133 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 133. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 133. (54 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 133.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 133 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 133 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 842 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3460 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2520 mm |
