1970 Fiat 124 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 90 kg more than 1970 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Fiat 124 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 1970 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Fiat 124 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 124 | A |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 54 L |
