1959 Abarth 500 vs. 1987 Buick Skylark

To start off, 1987 Buick Skylark is newer by 28 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Buick Skylark (148 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Skylark weights approximately 745 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, 1987 Buick Skylark, 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, 1987 Buick Skylark (217 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500. 1987 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 500 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Abarth 500 1987 Buick Skylark
Make Abarth Buick
Model 500 Skylark
Year Released 1959 1987
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 479 cc 2260 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 20 HP 148 HP
Torque 32 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 445 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 2980 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1330 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 1850 mm 2630 mm