1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 53 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (412 HP) has 392 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 1190 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, 2012 Ford Mustang (528 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 496 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 412 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 528 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1635 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 61 L |
