1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (241 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1230 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 311 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | S |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 88 L |
