1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1966 Toyota Publica
To start off, 1966 Toyota Publica is newer by 17 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 697 cc (2 cylinders), 1966 Toyota Publica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Toyota Publica (29 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Toyota Publica should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Fiat 500 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1966 Toyota Publica.
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 | 1966 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Fiat | Toyota |
| Model | 500 | Publica |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 582 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 70 L |
