1962 Abarth 600 vs. 1982 Renault 9
To start off, 1982 Renault 9 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Renault 9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Renault 9 weights approximately 267 kg more than 1962 Abarth 600.
Because 1962 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 1962 Abarth 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Renault 9, 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, 1982 Renault 9 (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Abarth 600. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Renault 9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Abarth 600 | 1982 Renault 9 | |
| Make | Abarth | Renault |
| Model | 600 | 9 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 980 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 76.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 583 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2490 mm |
