1998 BMW 317 vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 259 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat 500. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 317 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3546 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1628 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2301 mm |
