1949 Fiat 500 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 57 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 494 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1435 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. 2006 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | SL |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 2045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
