1972 Fiat 850 vs. 2008 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Ford Focus 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (90 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Fiat 850 2008 Ford Focus
Make Fiat Ford
Model 850 Focus
Year Released 1972 2008
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 847 cc 1560 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 51 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 69 Nm 215 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 1850 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 18.3:1
Top Speed 153 km/hour 174 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 3660 mm 4340 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2040 mm 2650 mm


 

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