1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2011 Kia Rio
To start off, 2011 Kia Rio is newer by 52 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Rio (138 HP) has 118 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Rio weights approximately 648 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, 2011 Kia Rio, 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, 2011 Kia Rio (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500. 2011 Kia Rio 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. 2011 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2011 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Abarth | Kia |
| Model | 500 | Rio |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1093 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 43 L |
