1966 Fiat 850 vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Holden Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Nova (81 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1966 Fiat 850. (41 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1966 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Nova weights approximately 289 kg more than 1966 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Fiat 850 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 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova, 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, 1989 Holden Nova (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Fiat 850. (60 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Fiat 850 | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Fiat | Holden |
| Model | 850 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2440 mm |
