1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2560 mm |
