1974 Fiat 126 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 29 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (603 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 580 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1575 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 961 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 126 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | CL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 593 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 603 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 88 L |
