1963 Abarth 1600 vs. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1963 Abarth 1600. (155 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1963 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 372 kg more than 1963 Abarth 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Abarth 1600 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 1963 Abarth 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500, 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 484 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Abarth 1600. (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Abarth 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Abarth 1600 | 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Abarth | Ford |
| Model | 1600 | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 744 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2730 mm |
