1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 38 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1460 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | GL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 100 L |
