1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2004 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2004 Peugeot 406 is newer by 45 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Peugeot 406 (204 HP) has 184 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 1115 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, 2004 Peugeot 406, 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, 2004 Peugeot 406 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2004 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Abarth | Peugeot |
| Model | 500 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 204 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 70 L |
