1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 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 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 705 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 Peugeot 406, 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 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 500 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2710 mm |
