1958 Abarth 500 vs. 2003 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,247 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Idea (69 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Idea weights approximately 755 kg more than 1958 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Abarth 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 1958 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 500 | 2003 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Abarth | Fiat |
| Model | 500 | Idea |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1247 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 69 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 115 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 47 L |
