1968 Fiat 500 vs. 2005 Kia Optima
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 977 kg more than 1968 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima, 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, 2005 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 500. (27 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 500 | 2005 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Fiat | Kia |
| Model | 500 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3030 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 65 L |
