1979 Fiat 131 vs. 1948 Fiat 500
To start off, 1979 Fiat 131 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Fiat 131 (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Fiat 131 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1948 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 1948 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 131 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1948 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 569 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 16 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 52 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 67 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2010 mm |
