1961 Abarth 600 vs. 1999 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1999 Peugeot 406 is newer by 38 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Peugeot 406 (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 600. (47 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 860 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, 1999 Peugeot 406, 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, 1999 Peugeot 406 (267 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 600. (66 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1999 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 600 | 1999 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Abarth | Peugeot |
| Model | 600 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
