1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1987 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1987 Peugeot 309 is newer by 16 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 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Peugeot 309 (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Peugeot 309 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, 1987 Peugeot 309, 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, 1987 Peugeot 309 (161 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Peugeot 309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1987 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 850 | 309 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2480 mm |
