1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (248 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 850.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 491 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2720 mm |
