1971 Fiat 850 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B 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 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 Mercedes-Benz B (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | B |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2780 mm |
