1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 55 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 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Escort (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 595 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, 1997 Ford Escort, 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 | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
