1971 Fiat 850 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 34 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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2570 mm |
