1996 Fiat Coupe vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1996 Fiat Coupe is newer by 17 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), 1996 Fiat Coupe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat Coupe (193 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Coupe should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat Coupe weights approximately 470 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, 1996 Fiat Coupe (302 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat Coupe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Coupe | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Coupe | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | 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 | 193 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
