1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 40 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 2,835 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (124 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 905 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Fiat | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 500 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2740 mm |
