1955 Abarth 208 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 208 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 208. (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 755 kg more than 1955 Abarth 208. 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. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 1955 Abarth 208 has manual transmission. 1955 Abarth 208 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Abarth 208 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Abarth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 208 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1088 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 3080 mm |
