1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1996 Ford Versailles
To start off, 1996 Ford Versailles is newer by 25 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Versailles is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Versailles (91 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Versailles 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, 1996 Ford Versailles, 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, 1996 Ford Versailles (144 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Versailles will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1996 Ford Versailles | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 850 | Versailles |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2560 mm |
