1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 48 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (69 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 555 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 45 L |
