1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1963 Pontiac Tempest
To start off, 1963 Pontiac Tempest is newer by 21 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 6,376 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Pontiac Tempest (295 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1963 Pontiac Tempest should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Pontiac Tempest weights approximately 875 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 | 1963 Pontiac Tempest | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | 500 | Tempest |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 6376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2930 mm |
