1989 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1989 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 517 kg more than 1989 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat 126. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1989 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1989 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Fiat 126 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 126 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 703 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 26 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Torque | 49 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1162 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |