1972 Fiat 850 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 25 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour 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, 1997 Ford Contour, 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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 850 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Fiat | Ford |
Model | 850 | Contour |
Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 69 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |