1953 Fiat 500 vs. 1980 Toyota Tercel

To start off, 1980 Toyota Tercel is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Toyota Tercel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Toyota Tercel (70 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1953 Fiat 500. (16 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Toyota Tercel should accelerate faster than 1953 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Toyota Tercel weights approximately 208 kg more than 1953 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1953 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 1953 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Toyota Tercel, 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. 1980 Toyota Tercel has automatic transmission and 1953 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1953 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Toyota Tercel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1953 Fiat 500 1980 Toyota Tercel
Make Fiat Toyota
Model 500 Tercel
Year Released 1953 1980
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 569 cc 1295 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 16 HP 70 HP
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 612 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 3250 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1290 mm 1560 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2010 mm 2510 mm