1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 131 (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 145 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1974 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1974 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 131 | A |
Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1689 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 58 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 19.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2430 mm |