1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2004 Proton 400
To start off, 2004 Proton 400 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Proton 400 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, 2004 Proton 400, 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, 2004 Proton 400 (109 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 2004 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Fiat | Proton |
| Model | 850 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| 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 | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
