1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2003 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2003 Peugeot 406 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Peugeot 406 (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Peugeot 406 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 Peugeot 406, 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 Peugeot 406 (197 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 2003 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
| Model | 850 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2450 mm |
