2003 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1996 Vector M12
To start off, 2003 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Vector M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Vector M12 would be higher. At 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Vector M12 weights approximately 568 kg more than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Vector M12 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 Vector M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Barchetta, 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 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Barchetta | 1996 Vector M12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Vector |
| Model | Barchetta | M12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2750 mm |
