1960 Fiat 500 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (136 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1960 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1960 Fiat 500.
Because 1960 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 1960 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Fiat 500. (30 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Fiat 500 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | B |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 500 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1960 mm | 2699 mm |
