1958 Abarth 500 vs. 1989 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1989 Ford Meteor is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Meteor (71 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 500.
Because 1958 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 1958 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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 Meteor (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Meteor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 500 | 1989 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
