1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 191 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1976 Fiat 131 (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1976 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1231 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |