1974 Fiat 500 vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 479 kg more than 1974 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 500 | 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Fiat | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 500 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
