1973 Fiat 500 vs. 2003 Fiat Punto
To start off, 2003 Fiat Punto is newer by 30 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 1,251 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Fiat Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Punto (70 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Punto should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Punto weights approximately 440 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, 2003 Fiat Punto, 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, 2003 Fiat Punto (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (37 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 2003 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 500 | Punto |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1251 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 37 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 525 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2550 mm |
