1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2012 Volvo C70
To start off, 2012 Volvo C70 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C70 (227 HP) has 207 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C70 weights approximately 1295 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, 2012 Volvo C70, 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, 2012 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500. 2012 Volvo C70 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. 2012 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2012 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Abarth | Volvo |
| Model | 500 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| 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 | 227 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1836 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 60 L |
