1978 Fiat 133 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 133. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 133 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 133. (33 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 133.
Because 1978 Fiat 133 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 133. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 133. (54 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 133.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 133 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 133 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 842 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3460 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2510 mm |
