Fiat 500

vs

SEAT 600

Italy vs Spain — 1957 vs 1957

Fiat 500 (1957)
SEAT 600 (1957)
Specifications
500 Nuova 500600 D
Horsepower18 hp25 hp
Torque21 lb-ft32 lb-ft
Engine Size499 cc767 cc
0-60 mph0.0 sec50.0 sec
Top Speed59 mph62 mph
¼ Mile0.0 sec30.0 sec
Weight1,290 lbs
Wheelbase1,840 mm2,000 mm
Length2,970 mm3,285 mm
Units Produced3,893,294797,319
Value (Excellent)$35,000$25,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity3/103/10
The Verdict

The 1957 SEAT 600 D emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 counters with quicker acceleration, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Putting the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 against the 1957 SEAT 600 D is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Italy versus Spain. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 producing 18 hp and the 1957 SEAT 600 D delivering 25 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat 500 uses a Inline-2 OHV 4V displacing 499 cc, while the SEAT 600 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 767 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 edges ahead at 0.0 seconds versus 50.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 797,319 units built, the 1957 SEAT 600 D is considerably scarcer than the Fiat 500's 3,893,294 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1957 SEAT 600 D rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.