1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1978 Seat 127
To start off, 1978 Seat 127 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 1,010 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Seat 127 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 51 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
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 Seat 127, 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 Seat 127 (76 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Seat 127 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1978 Seat 127 | |
| Make | Fiat | Seat |
| Model | 850 | 127 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1010 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2230 mm |
