1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1722 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Fiat 126 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 1979 Fiat 126. 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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 126 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 126 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2510 mm |