1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1988 Ford Telstar

To start off, 1988 Ford Telstar is newer by 39 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Telstar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Telstar (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Telstar should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Telstar weights approximately 420 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.

Because 1949 Fiat 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1949 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Ford Telstar, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1988 Ford Telstar 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. 1988 Ford Telstar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1949 Fiat 500 1988 Ford Telstar
Make Fiat Ford
Model 500 Telstar
Year Released 1949 1988
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 569 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 16 HP 94 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 610 kg 1030 kg
Vehicle Length 3250 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Width 1290 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2010 mm 2520 mm