1961 Fiat 1300 vs. 2003 Volvo V50

To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 1300 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 1300. (71 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 478 kg more than 1961 Fiat 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1961 Fiat 1300 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 1961 Fiat 1300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 1300. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 1300. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1961 Fiat 1300 has manual transmission. 1961 Fiat 1300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1961 Fiat 1300 2003 Volvo V50
Make Fiat Volvo
Model 1300 V50
Year Released 1961 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1481 cc 2435 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 71 HP 207 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 106 Nm 330 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 77 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.5 mm 93.2 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 960 kg 1438 kg
Vehicle Length 4040 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1550 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 38 L 62 L