1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1961 Ferrari 156
To start off, 1961 Ferrari 156 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,486 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Ferrari 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Ferrari 156 (187 HP @ 9500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ferrari 156 should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite weights approximately 204 kg more than 1961 Ferrari 156.
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:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1961 Ferrari 156 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Ferrari |
| Model | Sprite | 156 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 9500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2330 mm |
