1961 Abarth 1600 vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 28 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 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Abarth 1600 (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1961 Abarth 1600 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 1961 Abarth 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort, 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, 1961 Abarth 1600 (138 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1961 Abarth 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 1600 | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 1600 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 45 L |
