1948 Fiat 500 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 64 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 384 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 1260 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 2012 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1948 Fiat 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 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. 2012 BMW 550 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. 2012 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Fiat | BMW |
| Model | 500 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2968 mm |
