1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1961 Austin Mini Cooper
To start off, 1961 Austin Mini Cooper is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Abarth 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth 1600 (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 376 kg more than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 1600 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 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Austin Mini Cooper, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1961 Austin Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Abarth | Austin |
| Model | 1600 | Mini Cooper |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 62.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 81.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2040 mm |
