1959 Abarth 500 vs. 1971 Simca 1100
To start off, 1971 Simca 1100 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,204 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Simca 1100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Simca 1100 (57 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Simca 1100 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Simca 1100 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1959 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Simca 1100, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Simca 1100 (91 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Simca 1100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 1971 Simca 1100 | |
| Make | Abarth | Simca |
| Model | 500 | 1100 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 57 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 65 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 47 L |
