1949 Fiat 500 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 54 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1370 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1949 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1949 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | SL |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
