1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 47 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 430 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.
Compare all specifications:
1949 Fiat 500 | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | 500 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1949 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 569 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 16 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2270 mm |