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 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 271 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1367 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |