1961 Abarth 1600 vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 51 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Fiesta (120 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 191 kg more than 1961 Abarth 1600. 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, 2012 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2012 Ford Fiesta (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 1600. (138 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 1600 | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 1600 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1151 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 45 L |
