1981 Fiat 126 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 689 kg more than 1981 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 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 (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 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 1981 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 126 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 126 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1274 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2340 mm |