1969 Fiat 850 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,043 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Fiat 850 (51 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Fiat 850 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Fiat 850 weights approximately 33 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1983 Volkswagen Polo (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 850. (66 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 850 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
