2009 Fiat 500 vs. 1978 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Tercel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Tercel would be higher. At 1,452 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Toyota Tercel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat 500 (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Tercel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat 500 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1978 Toyota Tercel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat 500 | 1978 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Fiat | Toyota |
| Model | 500 | Tercel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
