1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 30 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 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, 2003 Mazda 6, 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2680 mm |
