1958 Fiat 500 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1958 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1958 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 725 kg more than 1958 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Fiat 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1958 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Fiat 500. (24 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Fiat 500 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | A |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 14 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 54 L |
