1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 44 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (161 HP) has 141 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 954 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, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500. 2003 Volvo V50 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. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Abarth | Volvo |
| Model | 500 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 62 L |
