1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 660 kg more than 1973 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Fiat 126 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 1973 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | A |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 54 L |
