1949 Fiat 500 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 118 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1949 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 134 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
