1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 37 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 36 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 185 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, 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 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2480 mm |
