1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Quantum is newer by 41 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Quantum (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Quantum should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volkswagen Quantum weights approximately 340 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, 1989 Volkswagen Quantum, 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. 1989 Volkswagen Quantum has automatic transmission and 1948 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1948 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Volkswagen Quantum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 1989 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Quantum |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 52 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2560 mm |
