1974 Fiat 500 vs. 2006 Ford Escape
To start off, 2006 Ford Escape is newer by 32 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Escape (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Escape weights approximately 1324 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, 2006 Ford Escape, 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, 2006 Ford Escape (207 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 500 | 2006 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Escape |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 62 L |
