1970 Fiat 500 vs. 1989 Ford Probe
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 835 kg more than 1970 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe, 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, 1989 Ford Probe (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 500. (24 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Fiat 500 | 1989 Ford Probe | |
Make | Fiat | Ford |
Model | 500 | Probe |
Year Released | 1970 | 1989 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 499 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 14 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 24 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 480 kg | 1315 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3030 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2520 mm |