1972 Fiat 850 vs. 2005 Honda Civic

To start off, 2005 Honda Civic is newer by 33 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda Civic (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda Civic 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, 2005 Honda Civic, 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, 2005 Honda Civic (156 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Fiat 850 2005 Honda Civic
Make Fiat Honda
Model 850 Civic
Year Released 1972 2005
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 847 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 51 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 69 Nm 156 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4300 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 153 km/hour 187 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Length 3660 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2040 mm 2730 mm