1972 Fiat 850 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 30 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 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, 2002 Mazda 6, 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, 2002 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 850 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2680 mm |
