1975 Fiat 124 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 184 kg more than 1975 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Fiat 124 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 1975 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 124 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 124 | A |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
