1976 Fiat 126 vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 605 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Fiat 126 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
