1959 Abarth 850 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 50 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 850. (70 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 655 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.
Because 1959 Abarth 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 850. (80 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 850 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Abarth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | A |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 54 L |
