1972 Fiat 850 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 850.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 850 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | S |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 3090 mm |
