1973 Fiat 850 vs. 1996 Ford Ka
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 23 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Ka (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Ka 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, 1996 Ford Ka, 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, 1996 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 1996 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 850 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2450 mm |
