1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1994 Ford Contour
To start off, 1994 Ford Contour is newer by 35 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Ford Contour (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Contour weights approximately 282 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.
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, 1994 Ford Contour, 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 | 1994 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 1600 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
