1973 Fiat 850 vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 1988 Renault 19 is newer by 15 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 1,763 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 19 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 19 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 19 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, 1988 Renault 19, 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, 1988 Renault 19 (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 19 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Fiat | Renault |
| Model | 850 | 19 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2560 mm |
