1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 300 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, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2537 mm |
