1972 Fiat 850 vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 17 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 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Escort (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort 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, 1989 Ford Escort, 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, 1989 Ford Escort (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 850 | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 850 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
