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