1961 Abarth 1600 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Polo 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 186 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Polo, 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1961 Abarth 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 1600 | 1989 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 774 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2340 mm |
