1973 Fiat 850 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 39 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Fiat 850 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
Model | 850 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 69 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4557 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1781 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2578 mm |