1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1959 Ford Zephyr
To start off, 1959 Ford Zephyr is newer by 10 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 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Ford Zephyr (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 641 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 | 1959 Ford Zephyr | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Zephyr |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2720 mm |
