1968 Fiat 500 vs. 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196
To start off, 1968 Fiat 500 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 (276 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1968 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 500 | 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | W 196 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1956 |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 720 kg |
