1972 Fiat 850 vs. 2008 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 36 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 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Fiat 500 (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Fiat 500 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, 2008 Fiat 500, 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, 2008 Fiat 500 (131 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Fiat 850 | 2008 Fiat 500 | |
Make | Fiat | Fiat |
Model | 850 | 500 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 1368 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 69 Nm | 131 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2310 mm |