1970 Fiat 124 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 185 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, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1970 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1970 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Fiat 124 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 124 | A |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 54 L |
