1971 Fiat 124 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1900 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 124 | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 60 L |
