1978 Chrysler Avenger vs. 2011 Fiat 500
To start off, 2011 Fiat 500 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Avenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler Avenger (70 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler Avenger should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat 500 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Avenger.
Because 1978 Chrysler Avenger 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 1978 Chrysler Avenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Fiat 500 (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. (96 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. 2011 Fiat 500 has automatic transmission and 1978 Chrysler Avenger has manual transmission. 1978 Chrysler Avenger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Avenger | 2011 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | Avenger | 500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2310 mm |
