1959 Abarth 1000 vs. 2008 MG ZR
To start off, 2008 MG ZR is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1000 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 MG ZR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 MG ZR (159 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1000. (88 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZR weights approximately 505 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 1000 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 1959 Abarth 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 MG ZR, 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, 2008 MG ZR (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 1000. (97 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 MG ZR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1000 | 2008 MG ZR | |
| Make | Abarth | MG |
| Model | 1000 | ZR |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
