1968 Fiat 500 vs. 2006 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2006 Toyota Matrix is newer by 38 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 1,784 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Matrix (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 860 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 2006 Toyota Matrix is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Fiat 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Matrix will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Toyota Matrix (156 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 500 | 2006 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Fiat | Toyota |
| Model | 500 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1784 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3030 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 45 L |
