1983 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 476 kg more than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Fiat Ritmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Fiat Ritmo | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ritmo | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 864 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
