1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1957 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1957 Ford 12 M is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Ford 12 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Ford 12 M (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 Ford 12 M should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Ford 12 M weights approximately 290 kg more than 1949 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:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 1957 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 500 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2500 mm |
