1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Fiat 124 (116 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 345 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124.
Because 1972 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 1972 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 124 | A |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1311 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
