1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1973 Fiat 500
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 662 kg more than 1973 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 500 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 1973 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (37 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1973 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Fiat |
| Model | Cavalier | 500 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 37 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 2980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1850 mm |
