1982 Fiat Abarth vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat Abarth. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat Abarth would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Fiat Abarth is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1982 Fiat Abarth. (140 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat Abarth. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 45 kg more than 1982 Fiat Abarth. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Fiat Abarth 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 1982 Fiat Abarth. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat Abarth. (215 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat Abarth.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat Abarth | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Abarth | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3010 mm |
