1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 226 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
Because 1981 Fiat 131 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 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1981 Fiat 131 (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat 131 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 131 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |