1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 38 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 850 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2578 mm |
