1971 Fiat 500 vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2002 Mini Cooper is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mini Cooper (163 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 500.
Because 1971 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 1971 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper, 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, 2002 Mini Cooper (210 Nm) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 500. (27 Nm). This means 2002 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 500 | 2002 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 500 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 497 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2470 mm |
