1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP) has 150 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1019 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| 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 | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
