1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1971 Fiat 850
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 850.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1971 Fiat 850 | |
| Make | Datsun | Fiat |
| Model | 280 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2040 mm |
