1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 1988 BMW 525 is newer by 29 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 2,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 645 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. 1988 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 1600 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 1600 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2770 mm |
