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If you have thought about buying an electric car, but don’t want to spend around $30,000 for a new one, then you can always check the used market. While perusing the list of classifieds, you’re sure to run into plenty of Nissan Leaf and Fiat 500e models for sale. They’re both popular EVs, but if you had to pick one, which would be a better value? Let’s find out.

2019 Fiat 500e versus 2019 Nissan Leaf

A silver Nissan LEAF parked in a garage, the Nissan LEAF is one of the most popular used electric cars
Nissan LEAF | Nissan

While these two electric hatchbacks might look similar, they actually couldn’t be more different. For starters, the Nissan Leaf is a five-door hatchback and the 500e is a two-door hatchback. Under the hood of the 2019 Nissan Leaf, you’ll find a 110-kW synchronous electric motor that puts out 147 hp. That power is supplement by instantaneous torque, which is able to scoot the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.4 seconds, according to Nissan.

But performance isn’t exactly the Leaf’s focal point. Instead, the Leaf shines with its 150-mile electric range, which can be extended if you can find a long-range model. Either way, the Nissan Leaf also offers some additional features like one-pedal driving, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and Pro Pilot Assist.

On the inside, the Leaf offers a good amount of room for up to five adults and is available with leather seats, a surround-view monitor, and even a premium Bose Audio system.

The Fiat 500e offers compact electric fun

While the Nissan Leaf offers buyers a little more room and power, the Fiat 500e offers some quirky, compact fun. Bear in mind that with an 83-kW motor, the 500e is down on power compared to it Japanese rival. However, it’s 111-hp rating doesn’t necessarily make it slow. According to Car and Driver’s testing, the 2019 Fiat 500e was able to go from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. which is about one second slower than the Leaf.

But again, performance isn’t the key takeaway with this plucky electric car. In addition to its efficient and somewhat powerful motor, the 500e is also blessed with a small, but comfortable interior, as long as you’re on the shorter side. Once inside, you’ll find faux leather seats, a five-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, automatic climate control, and heated front seats. That’s a lot of value considering this is a tiny electric car that’s made for shorter commutes. Speaking of commuting, the Fiat 500e is capable of driving up to 84 miles on a single charge.

Which electric vehicle is a better value?

A red Nissan Leaf photographed in profile in a field
The Leaf came alive in 2018 | Nissan

The Nissan Leaf is the better choice, hands down. Despite its reputation for being simply reliable over the years, the Leaf boasts more interior and cargo volume than the Fiat 500e and more electric range. Additionally, you can find a 2019 or older Nissan Leaf for anywhere between $15,000 to $19,000 on the used market. By comparison, used Fiat 500e examples are selling for around $15,000. That’s a good price, but the Leaf is a better value.

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