1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 2008 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Fiat 500 (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat 500 weights approximately 448 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fairthorpe Atom 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 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat 500, 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. 2008 Fiat 500 has automatic transmission and 1955 Fairthorpe Atom has manual transmission. 1955 Fairthorpe Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 2008 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Fiat |
| Model | Atom | 500 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 322 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 15 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 70.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.1:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 417 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 35 L |
