1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1998 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1998 Peugeot 406 is newer by 49 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), 1998 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Peugeot 406 (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 809 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, 1998 Peugeot 406, 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 | 1998 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 500 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| 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 | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
