1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1997 Fiat Duna
To start off, 1997 Fiat Duna is newer by 26 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 1,696 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Fiat Duna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Fiat Duna (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Duna 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, 1997 Fiat Duna, 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, 1997 Fiat Duna (105 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Fiat Duna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1997 Fiat Duna | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 850 | Duna |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2370 mm |
