1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 443 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1370 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 ML 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 ML 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 ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 575 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | ML |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| 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 | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2916 mm |
