1957 Abarth 500 vs. 1988 Austin Montego
To start off, 1988 Austin Montego is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Austin Montego is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Austin Montego (85 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Austin Montego should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Austin Montego weights approximately 671 kg more than 1957 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Abarth 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1957 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Austin Montego, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Austin Montego (134 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Austin Montego will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Abarth 500 | 1988 Austin Montego | |
| Make | Abarth | Austin |
| Model | 500 | Montego |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 478 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2580 mm |
