1972 Fiat X1-9 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat X1-9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat X1-9 would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1972 Fiat X1-9. (74 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat X1-9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1170 kg more than 1972 Fiat X1-9. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat X1-9 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 X1-9. 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 (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat X1-9. (98 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat X1-9. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1972 Fiat X1-9 has manual transmission. 1972 Fiat X1-9 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:
| 1972 Fiat X1-9 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X1-9 | A |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 54 L |
