1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 265 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Fiat 131 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 115 HP |
Torque | 94 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |