2004 Fiat Idea vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Fiat Idea. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Fiat Idea would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Idea. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 200 kg more than 2004 Fiat Idea. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Idea. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Idea | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1500 mm |
