1965 Riley Kestrel vs. 1969 Seat 1500
To start off, 1969 Seat 1500 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,481 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Seat 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Seat 1500 (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1965 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Seat 1500 should accelerate faster than 1965 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Seat 1500 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1965 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Seat 1500 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 1969 Seat 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 Riley Kestrel, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Riley Kestrel | 1969 Seat 1500 | |
| Make | Riley | Seat |
| Model | Kestrel | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1481 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2660 mm |
