1959 Citroen DS vs. 1948 Fiat 500
To start off, 1959 Citroen DS 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 1,911 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Citroen DS (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Citroen DS weights approximately 530 kg more than 1948 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 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 1948 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Citroen DS, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen DS | 1948 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Citroen | Fiat |
| Model | DS | 500 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1948 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 569 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 16 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 52 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2010 mm |
