1958 Abarth 500 vs. 1998 Ford Versailles
To start off, 1998 Ford Versailles is newer by 40 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Versailles is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Versailles (92 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Versailles 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, 1998 Ford Versailles, 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, 1998 Ford Versailles (144 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Versailles will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 500 | 1998 Ford Versailles | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Versailles |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 92 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 144 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 Length | 2980 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2560 mm |
