1966 Abarth 595 vs. 1988 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1988 Lancia Thema is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Abarth 595. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Abarth 595 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1966 Abarth 595. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1966 Abarth 595. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lancia Thema weights approximately 780 kg more than 1966 Abarth 595. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Abarth 595 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 1966 Abarth 595. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lancia Thema, 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, 1988 Lancia Thema (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Abarth 595. (45 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Abarth 595.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Abarth 595 | 1988 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Abarth | Lancia |
| Model | 595 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2670 mm |
