1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 49 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 640 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Fiat | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 500 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2550 mm |
