1961 Fiat 500 vs. 1999 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 38 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 5,598 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen W12 (414 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 500 | 1999 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 5598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 22 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1050 mm |
