1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 10 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Fiat 850 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 850 | Santana |
Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 69 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2560 mm |