1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 31 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (74 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 605 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 127 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 127 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1300 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 775 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 55 L |