1973 Fiat 500 vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (163 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 665 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 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 500 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1834 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 | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
