1972 Fiat 850 vs. 2004 Fiat Punto
To start off, 2004 Fiat Punto is newer by 32 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 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Fiat Punto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Fiat Punto (70 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Punto 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, 2004 Fiat Punto, 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, 2004 Fiat Punto (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 850 | 2004 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | 850 | Punto |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
