1973 Fiat 500 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 32 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 250 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1725 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | R |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 2235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 62 L |
