1961 Abarth 1600 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 30 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 1600.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 1600. (138 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 1600 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 1600 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2610 mm |
