1977 Austin Marina vs. 2009 Fiat 500
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Austin Marina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat 500 (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1977 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1977 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat 500 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1977 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Austin Marina 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 1977 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Austin Marina | 2009 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Marina | 500 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2310 mm |
