1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1970 Ford 17
To start off, 1970 Ford 17 is newer by 28 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Ford 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Ford 17 (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Ford 17 should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Ford 17 weights approximately 540 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 | 1970 Ford 17 | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 500 | 17 |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2710 mm |
