1948 Fiat 500 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 56 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 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 357 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 52 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2270 mm |
