1961 Abarth 1600 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Abarth 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Abarth 1600 (89 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1961 Abarth 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Abarth 1600 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 1600 | Golf |
Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 138 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |