1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 33 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 795 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 126 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 126 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2537 mm |