1973 Fiat 500 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 4,264 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1540 kg more than 1973 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Fiat 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1973 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1973 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 4264 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 88 L |
