1959 Abarth 600 vs. 1988 Mini MK V
To start off, 1988 Mini MK V is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mini MK V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 41 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mini MK V weights approximately 40 kg more than 1959 Abarth 600.
Because 1959 Abarth 600 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 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mini MK V, 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, 1988 Mini MK V (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 600. (54 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Mini MK V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 600 | 1988 Mini MK V | |
| Make | Abarth | Mini |
| Model | 600 | MK V |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2040 mm |
