1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1987 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1987 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 45 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 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 401 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 | 1987 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 2301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2650 mm |
