1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 34 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 315 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 131 | A |
Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |