1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1971 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 22 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 4,091 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (173 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500.
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 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | 500 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 4091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2750 mm |
