1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1978 Peugeot 305
To start off, 1978 Peugeot 305 is newer by 7 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 1,472 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Peugeot 305 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Peugeot 305 (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305 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, 1978 Peugeot 305, 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, 1978 Peugeot 305 (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Peugeot 305 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1978 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 850 | 305 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2630 mm |
