1975 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 142 kg more than 1975 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
