1986 Fiat Croma vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1986 Fiat Croma is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Fiat Croma (154 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Fiat Croma weights approximately 360 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1986 Fiat Croma (235 Nm @ 2350 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Croma | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Croma | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2350 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
