1966 Fiat 500 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1966 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1966 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 983 kg more than 1966 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra, 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Fiat 500 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 22 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 36 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1523 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 61 L |
