1988 Pontiac Fiero vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Fiero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Fiero would be higher. At 2,826 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Fiero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Fiero (143 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Fiero should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 24 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Fiero.
Because 1988 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 1988 Pontiac Fiero. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1988 Pontiac Fiero (220 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm). This means 1988 Pontiac Fiero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Pontiac Fiero | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiero | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2826 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2340 mm |
