1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1303
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 1303 is newer by 25 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1303 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen 1303 (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen 1303 should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1303 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1948 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:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 1973 Volkswagen 1303 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | 1303 |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |
