1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 49 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 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 610 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 1600 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2740 mm |
