1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1959 Fiat 1200
To start off, 1959 Fiat 1200 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,221 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Fiat 1200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Fiat 1200 (53 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Fiat 1200 should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Fiat 1200 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1942 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 Fiat 500 | 1959 Fiat 1200 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 500 | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 1221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2350 mm |
