1972 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 881 kg more than 1972 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SLK (450 Nm) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 62 L |
