1957 Abarth 500 vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 32 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 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fiesta (75 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (23 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 422 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (33 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Abarth 500 | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 33 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 158 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 468 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3350 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1260 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2540 mm |
