1985 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1985 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 812 kg more than 1985 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Fiat 126 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 1985 Fiat 126. 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 (165 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Fiat 126 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 126 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 652 cc | 1982 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 588 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2470 mm |