Italy vs UK — 1957 vs 1959
| 500 Nuova 500 | P50 P50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 18 hp | 4 hp |
| Torque | 21 lb-ft | 3 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 49 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 0.0 sec | 0.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 59 mph | 38 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 0.0 sec | 0.0 sec |
| Wheelbase | 1,840 mm | 1,270 mm |
| Length | 2,970 mm | 1,340 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,893,294 | 50 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $175,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 10/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 excels in more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1959 Peel P50 P50 stands out for quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 against the 1959 Peel P50 P50 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Italy versus UK. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 producing 18 hp and the 1959 Peel P50 P50 delivering 4 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat 500 uses a Inline-2 OHV 4V displacing 499 cc, while the Peel P50 relies on a Single-cylinder 2-stroke with 49 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1959 Peel P50 P50 edges ahead at 0.0 seconds versus 0.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 50 units built, the 1959 Peel P50 P50 is considerably scarcer than the Fiat 500's 3,893,294 examples. On the collector market, the 1959 Peel P50 P50 commands a significant premium over the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.