1974 Fiat 126 vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (125 HP) has 102 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 830 kg more than 1974 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (245 Nm) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2800 mm |
