1977 Fiat 132 vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 2,445 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Fiat 132 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 132. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 132. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 132 weights approximately 91 kg more than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1977 Fiat 132 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 132. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 132. (148 Nm). This means 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 132.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 132 | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 132 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2445 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
