1949 Fiat 500 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 62 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1772 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat, 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
