1974 Fiat 500 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1248 kg more than 1974 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 500 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 516 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 54 L |
