1975 Fiat 124 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP) has 243 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 909 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.
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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 124. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1975 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1975 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 124 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 124 | SL |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
