1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 2011 Fiat 500
To start off, 2011 Fiat 500 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,248 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Fiat 500 (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat 500 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Fiat 500, 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, 2011 Fiat 500 (145 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 2011 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Datsun | Fiat |
| Model | 1000 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 17.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2310 mm |
