1971 Fiat 850 vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 33 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 1,332 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour 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, 2004 Smart ForFour, 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, 2004 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Fiat | Smart |
| Model | 850 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
