1972 Fiat 850 vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1979 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Vauxhall Astra (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 850.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1979 Vauxhall Astra (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 850 | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Vauxhall |
Model | 850 | Astra |
Year Released | 1972 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 1296 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 69 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2520 mm |