1961 Abarth 1600 vs. 1970 MG MGB
To start off, 1970 MG MGB is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 MG MGB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 MG MGB (98 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 MG MGB should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1970 MG MGB.
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, 1970 MG MGB (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 1600. (138 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1970 MG MGB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 1600 | 1970 MG MGB | |
| Make | Abarth | MG |
| Model | 1600 | MGB |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 880 kg |
