1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 36 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus 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, 2009 Ford Focus, 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, 2009 Ford Focus (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 850 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2620 mm |
