1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 20 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (166 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
