1996 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2005 Jensen SV-8
To start off, 2005 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Jensen SV-8 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 2005 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 2005 Jensen SV-8 (440 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Barchetta | 2005 Jensen SV-8 | |
| Make | Fiat | Jensen |
| Model | Barchetta | SV-8 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2410 mm |
