1961 Abarth 600 vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1996 Ford Mustang is newer by 35 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 600. (47 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 875 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.
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. 1996 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 1961 Abarth 600 has manual transmission. 1961 Abarth 600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 600 | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 600 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2580 mm |
