1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 33 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 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Renault 18 (66 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Renault 18 weights approximately 515 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.
Because 1948 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 1948 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18, 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:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 500 | 18 |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2450 mm |
