1959 Abarth 850 vs. 1980 Triumph TR8
To start off, 1980 Triumph TR8 is newer by 21 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 3,523 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Triumph TR8 (138 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 850. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Triumph TR8 should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Triumph TR8 weights approximately 245 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.
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, 1980 Triumph TR8 (224 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 850. (80 Nm). This means 1980 Triumph TR8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 850 | 1980 Triumph TR8 | |
| Make | Abarth | Triumph |
| Model | 850 | TR8 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 3523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
