1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Fiat 850 2009 Volkswagen Polo
Make Fiat Volkswagen
Model 850 Polo
Year Released 1973 2009
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 847 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 51 HP 101 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 69 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 153 km/hour 188 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 3660 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2040 mm 2470 mm