1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 635 kg more than 1981 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 127 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.7 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2510 mm |
