1997 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1997 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 25 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 1997 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Barchetta | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Barchetta | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2340 mm |
