1961 Abarth 600 vs. 1989 Dodge Shadow
To start off, 1989 Dodge Shadow is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Shadow is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Shadow (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 600. (47 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Shadow weights approximately 693 kg more than 1961 Abarth 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Abarth 600 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 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 600. (66 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Shadow will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 600 | 1989 Dodge Shadow | |
| Make | Abarth | Dodge |
| Model | 600 | Shadow |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 1288 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2470 mm |
