1972 Fiat 850 vs. 2012 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus is newer by 40 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus 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, 2012 Ford Taurus, 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, 2012 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 850 | 2012 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 850 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2868 mm |
