1971 Fiat 850 vs. 1998 Volvo C70
To start off, 1998 Volvo C70 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo C70 (236 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70 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, 1998 Volvo C70, 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, 1998 Volvo C70 (340 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 1998 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2670 mm |
