1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 343 kg more than 1977 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Fiat 131 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 235 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1363 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |