1996 Italdesign Formula 4 vs. 1959 Riley 4
To start off, 1996 Italdesign Formula 4 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Riley 4 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 1996 Italdesign Formula 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Italdesign Formula 4 (147 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1959 Riley 4. (63 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Italdesign Formula 4 should accelerate faster than 1959 Riley 4.
Because 1959 Riley 4 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 1959 Riley 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Italdesign Formula 4, 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, 1996 Italdesign Formula 4 (187 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Riley 4. (115 Nm). This means 1996 Italdesign Formula 4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Riley 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Italdesign Formula 4 | 1959 Riley 4 | |
| Make | Italdesign | Riley |
| Model | Formula 4 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1487 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2530 mm |
