1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 50 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 802 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92.8 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 | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
