1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 43 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP) has 282 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1535 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Abarth 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 428 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Abarth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | S |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 88 L |
