1970 Abarth 595 vs. 1969 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1970 Abarth 595 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Riley Kestrel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Riley Kestrel (64 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1970 Abarth 595. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel should accelerate faster than 1970 Abarth 595. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Riley Kestrel weights approximately 440 kg more than 1970 Abarth 595. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Abarth 595. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Riley Kestrel (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Abarth 595. (46 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1969 Riley Kestrel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Abarth 595.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Abarth 595 | 1969 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Abarth | Riley |
| Model | 595 | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 46 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 25 L |
