1997 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 12 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Barchetta | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Barchetta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2520 mm |
