Italy vs Italy — 1957 vs 1976
| 500 Nuova 500 | 131 Abarth Rally | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 18 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 21 lb-ft | 137 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1,995 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 0.0 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 59 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 0.0 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,160 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 1,840 mm | 2,490 mm |
| Length | 2,970 mm | 4,184 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,893,294 | 400 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 8/10 |
The 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 counters with quicker acceleration, better value, 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.
The 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 and 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally share a manufacturer in Fiat, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Fiat brand. The 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally holds a clear advantage in raw power with 140 hp compared to 18 hp, a 122-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat 500 uses a Inline-2 OHV 4V displacing 499 cc, while the Fiat 131 Abarth Rally relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,995 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 edges ahead at 0.0 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 400 units built, the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally is considerably scarcer than the Fiat 500's 3,893,294 examples. On the collector market, the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally commands a significant premium over the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.