1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1942 Fiat 500
To start off, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (146 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 645 kg more than 1942 Fiat 500. 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:
| 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1942 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Fiat |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | 500 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 567 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 14 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2010 mm |
