1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1976 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1976 Datsun 260Z is newer by 27 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 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Datsun 260Z weights approximately 665 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. 1976 Datsun 260Z has automatic transmission and 1949 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1949 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Datsun 260Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 1976 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Fiat | Datsun |
| Model | 500 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
