1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 28 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 814 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Fiat 126 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 126 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
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 | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1399 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |