1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 880 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.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Fiat 131 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 131 | SL |
Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1585 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 384 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1910 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |