1959 Abarth 500 vs. 1989 Chevrolet Beretta
To start off, 1989 Chevrolet Beretta is newer by 30 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 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet Beretta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chevrolet Beretta (180 HP) has 160 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet Beretta should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chevrolet Beretta weights approximately 840 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, 1989 Chevrolet Beretta, 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, 1989 Chevrolet Beretta (217 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet Beretta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 1989 Chevrolet Beretta | |
| Make | Abarth | Chevrolet |
| Model | 500 | Beretta |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 2259 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 59 L |
