1981 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1981 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat Ritmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat Ritmo (81 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Ritmo should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat Ritmo weights approximately 180 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1981 Fiat Ritmo (127 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Fiat Ritmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Ritmo | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ritmo | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 38 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 42 L |
