1996 BMW 530 vs. 2011 Fiat 500

To start off, 2011 Fiat 500 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 530 (193 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2011 Fiat 500. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 530 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2011 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 BMW 530 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 1996 BMW 530. 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, 1996 BMW 530 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Fiat 500. (132 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Fiat 500. 2011 Fiat 500 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 530 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:

1996 BMW 530 2011 Fiat 500
Make BMW Fiat
Model 530 500
Year Released 1996 2011
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2793 cc 1368 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 193 HP 101 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 132 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 72 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 84 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1515 kg 1005 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 3550 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2310 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 35 L