1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 22 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth 1600 (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. 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, 1981 Ford Escort, 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 | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 1600 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2400 mm |
