1973 Fiat 500 vs. 2012 Scion xB
To start off, 2012 Scion xB is newer by 39 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion xB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion xB (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion xB should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Scion xB weights approximately 863 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, 2012 Scion xB, 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, 2012 Scion xB (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Scion xB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 2012 Scion xB | |
| Make | Fiat | Scion |
| Model | 500 | xB |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4249 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 53 L |
