1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 46 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 360 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156, 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. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 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. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Abarth | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 1600 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2550 mm |
