1959 BMW Isetta vs. 1948 Fiat 500
To start off, 1959 BMW Isetta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 569 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Fiat 500 (14 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1959 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1948 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Fiat 500 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1959 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW Isetta | 1948 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | Isetta | 500 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1948 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 569 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 14 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 3220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2010 mm |
