1997 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 665 kg more than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Barchetta | 2005 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Barchetta | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1725 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2470 mm |
