1961 Abarth 1300 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (323 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 1300. (137 HP @ 7600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1260 kg more than 1961 Abarth 1300. 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. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1961 Abarth 1300 has manual transmission. 1961 Abarth 1300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 1300 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Abarth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1300 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 80 L |
