1973 Fiat 126 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 36 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 501 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 126. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 126 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | R |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 80 L |
