1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 12 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 1600 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2700 mm |
