1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2008 Hyundai Matrix
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Matrix 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Matrix weights approximately 682 kg more than 1959 Abarth 500.
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, 2008 Hyundai Matrix, 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, 2008 Hyundai Matrix (142 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2008 Hyundai Matrix | |
| Make | Abarth | Hyundai |
| Model | 500 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1127 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
