1961 Fiat 500 vs. 1979 Pontiac Lemans
To start off, 1979 Pontiac Lemans is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Lemans is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Pontiac Lemans weights approximately 920 kg more than 1961 Fiat 500.
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. 1979 Pontiac Lemans has automatic transmission and 1961 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1961 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Pontiac Lemans will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 500 | 1979 Pontiac Lemans | |
| Make | Fiat | Pontiac |
| Model | 500 | Lemans |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 22 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2760 mm |
