1972 Fiat 500 vs. 1983 Fiat Regata
To start off, 1983 Fiat Regata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Fiat Regata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Fiat Regata (71 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Fiat Regata should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Fiat Regata weights approximately 360 kg more than 1972 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Fiat Regata, 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, 1983 Fiat Regata (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 500. (28 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1983 Fiat Regata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 500 | 1983 Fiat Regata | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 500 | Regata |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 56 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 38 L |
