1973 Fiat 500 vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma, 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 500 | Carisma |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
