1970 Fiat 850 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 490 kg more than 1970 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 850. (66 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Fiat 850 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | A |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| 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 | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2570 mm |
