1959 Abarth 850 vs. 1962 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1962 Volkswagen 1500 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 850 would be higher. At 1,491 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Volkswagen 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth 850 (70 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen 1500. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 850 should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Volkswagen 1500 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1959 Abarth 850.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 850 | 1962 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2430 mm |
