1973 Fiat 500 vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 24 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 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1973 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Fiat | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 500 | Alero |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
