1973 Fiat 850 vs. 1989 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 1989 Vauxhall Nova is newer by 16 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 993 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Vauxhall Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 850 (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 850 should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Nova.
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, 1989 Vauxhall Nova, 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, both vehicles can yield 69 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 1989 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Fiat | Vauxhall |
| Model | 850 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2350 mm |
