1973 Fiat 500 vs. 2002 Kia Rio
To start off, 2002 Kia Rio is newer by 29 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 1,343 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Kia Rio (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Rio weights approximately 510 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, 2002 Kia Rio, 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 Kia Rio (113 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 2002 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Fiat | Kia |
| Model | 500 | Rio |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2420 mm |
