1990 Austin Maestro vs. 1971 Fiat 850
To start off, 1990 Austin Maestro is newer by 19 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 1,273 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Austin Maestro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Austin Maestro (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 850.
Because 1971 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 1971 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Austin Maestro, 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, 1990 Austin Maestro (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Austin Maestro | 1971 Fiat 850 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maestro | 850 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1273 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2040 mm |
