1980 Fiat 126 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 621 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Fiat 126 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 126 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 77.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |