1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 850.
Because 1971 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 1971 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 1974 Renault 12 (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Renault 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 850 | 12 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2450 mm |
