1973 Fiat 850 vs. 1981 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1981 Plymouth Horizon is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Plymouth Horizon (62 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Plymouth Horizon should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 850.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 1981 Plymouth Horizon (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Plymouth Horizon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 1981 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Fiat | Plymouth |
| Model | 850 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2530 mm |
