1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1961 Fiat 850
To start off, 1986 Fiat Panda is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 847 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Fiat 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Fiat 850 (51 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Fiat 850 should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Fiat Panda weights approximately 67 kg more than 1961 Fiat 850.
Because 1961 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 1961 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Panda, 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, 1961 Fiat 850 (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Fiat 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 1961 Fiat 850 | |
| Make | Fiat | Fiat |
| Model | Panda | 850 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 769 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 51 HP |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 38 L |
