1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 50 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
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 | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Abarth | Lotus |
| Model | 1600 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 882 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2310 mm |
