1949 Fiat 500 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 63 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 1207 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 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Fiat | Lexus |
| Model | 500 | IS |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
