1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 49 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 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP) has 319 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 1125 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 333 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 500 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 339 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 63 L |
