1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 42 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Volkswagen Passat (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 510 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.
Because 1942 Fiat 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1942 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2560 mm |
