1952 Fiat 500 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (53 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1952 Fiat 500. (16 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 should accelerate faster than 1952 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1952 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:
| 1952 Fiat 500 | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 53 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 40 L |
