1970 Fiat 124 vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (101 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat 500 weights approximately 166 kg more than 1970 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Fiat 124 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 1970 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Fiat 500 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Fiat 124 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 124 | 500 |
Year Released | 1970 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1368 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
Torque | 87 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1096 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3546 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1628 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1519 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2301 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 40 L |