1985 Pontiac Fiero 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 Pontiac Fiero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Fiero would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Fiero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Fiero. (140 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Fiero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 13 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Fiero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Pontiac Fiero 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 Pontiac Fiero. 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Pontiac Fiero | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Fiero | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2827 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1279 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2470 mm |