1958 Fiat 500 vs. 2003 Hyundai Matrix
To start off, 2003 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 45 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 1,606 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Hyundai Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Hyundai Matrix (104 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1958 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Matrix should accelerate faster than 1958 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Matrix weights approximately 755 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, 2003 Hyundai Matrix, 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 Hyundai Matrix (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Fiat 500. (24 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Fiat 500 | 2003 Hyundai Matrix | |
| Make | Fiat | Hyundai |
| Model | 500 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 72 L |
