1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 850.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | SL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2520 mm |
