1992 BMW 538 vs. 2009 Fiat 500
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 538. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 538 would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 2009 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 538 weights approximately 890 kg more than 2009 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 538 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 1992 BMW 538. 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, 1992 BMW 538 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat 500. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 538 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 538 | 2009 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 538 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
