1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 53 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 595 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Abarth | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 1600 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
