1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2000 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2000 Opel Meriva is newer by 27 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Opel Meriva 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, 2000 Opel Meriva, 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, 2000 Opel Meriva (220 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2000 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 2000 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2640 mm |
