1973 Subaru R-2 vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1973 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1973 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Fiat 500 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1973 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Subaru R-2 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 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500, 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 Fiat 500 (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Subaru R-2 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Subaru | Fiat |
| Model | R-2 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2310 mm |
