1971 Fiat 850 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2520 mm |
