1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1988 Ford Thunderbird 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 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (140 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1071 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. 1988 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 1988 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2880 mm |
