1959 Abarth 850 vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is newer by 13 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 1,679 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 850. (70 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen SP2 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1959 Abarth 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 850. (80 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1972 Volkswagen SP2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 850 | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |
