1955 Abarth 208 vs. 1959 Rover P5
To start off, 1959 Rover P5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 208 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Rover P5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Rover P5 (106 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 208. (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Rover P5 should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Rover P5 weights approximately 714 kg more than 1955 Abarth 208. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Abarth 208 | 1959 Rover P5 | |
| Make | Abarth | Rover |
| Model | 208 | P5 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1088 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 77.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 105 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 63 L |
