1973 Fiat 500 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1,468 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 480 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 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (37 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 500 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 37 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 525 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
