1971 Fiat 850 vs. 2008 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 37 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (138 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 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, 2008 Mazda 6, 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, 2008 Mazda 6 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 2008 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2730 mm |
