1971 Fiat 850 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 41 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (104 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 3410 mm |
