1948 Fiat 500 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 55 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (270 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 758 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 2003 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1948 Fiat 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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. 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2680 mm |
