1961 Abarth 750 vs. 1987 Lada Samara
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 750. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 750 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lada Samara (64 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 750. (43 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 750. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lada Samara weights approximately 365 kg more than 1961 Abarth 750. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Abarth 750 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 750. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, 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, 1987 Lada Samara (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 750. (57 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 750.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 750 | 1987 Lada Samara | |
| Make | Abarth | Lada |
| Model | 750 | Samara |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 61 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 43 L |
