1961 Abarth 600 vs. 2008 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2008 Fiat Idea is newer by 47 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 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Fiat Idea (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 600. (47 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat Idea weights approximately 555 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, 2008 Fiat Idea, 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, 2008 Fiat Idea (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 600. (66 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 600 | 2008 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Abarth | Fiat |
| Model | 600 | Idea |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 47 L |
