1968 Fiat 850 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 875 kg more than 1968 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 850. (65 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 850 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
