1976 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 758 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 126 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
