1987 Pontiac Fiero vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Fiero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Fiero would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Fiero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Pontiac Fiero (140 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Pontiac Fiero should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 121 kg more than 1987 Pontiac Fiero.
Because 1987 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 1987 Pontiac Fiero. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Pontiac Fiero. (220 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Pontiac Fiero.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Pontiac Fiero | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiero | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2827 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2537 mm |
