1970 Fiat 500 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 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 610 kg more than 1970 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Fiat 500. 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 (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 500. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1970 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1970 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Fiat 500 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | A |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3030 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 54 L |
