1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1966 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1966 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,131 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Volkswagen Beetle (24 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Fiat 500 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Beetle.
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:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 1966 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |
