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, 1998 BMW 317 (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Fiat 500. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 317 should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat 500. (145 Nm @ 1500 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 | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2310 mm |
