1971 Fiat 850 vs. 2011 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 40 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 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Panda 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, 2011 Fiat Panda, 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, 2011 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 2011 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 850 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2310 mm |
