1966 Abarth 595 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1966 Abarth 595. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1966 Abarth 595. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 850 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Abarth 595. (45 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Abarth 595.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Abarth 595 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Abarth | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 595 | 156 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| 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 | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 63 L |
