1960 Abarth 700 vs. 1959 BMW 503
To start off, 1960 Abarth 700 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 BMW 503 (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1960 Abarth 700. (63 HP @ 7800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1960 Abarth 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 503 weights approximately 940 kg more than 1960 Abarth 700. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Abarth 700 | 1959 BMW 503 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 700 | 503 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 696 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 61 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 560 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 75 L |
