1958 Fiat 500 vs. 1971 Fiat 128
To start off, 1971 Fiat 128 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,115 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Fiat 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Fiat 128 (63 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1958 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 128 should accelerate faster than 1958 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Fiat 128 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1958 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 128, 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, 1971 Fiat 128 (83 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Fiat 500. (24 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1971 Fiat 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Fiat 500 | 1971 Fiat 128 | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 500 | 128 |
Year Released | 1958 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 479 cc | 1115 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 14 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 24 Nm | 83 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 55.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.1:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2230 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 50 L |