1959 Abarth 500 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 40 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (130 HP) has 110 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 860 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (177 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Abarth | Saab |
| Model | 500 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 130 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 78 mm |
| 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 | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 68 L |
