1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 700 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 Lancia Thema, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Fiat | Lancia |
| Model | 500 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2670 mm |
