1949 Fiat 500 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 865 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
