1942 Fiat 500 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 810 kg more than 1942 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 1942 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1942 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 Fiat 500 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1942 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 567 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2720 mm |
