1971 Seat 1500 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Seat 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Seat 1500 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (125 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1971 Seat 1500. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1971 Seat 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1971 Seat 1500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Seat 1500 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 Seat 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Seat 1500 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Seat | Volvo |
| Model | 1500 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1479 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
