1975 Fiat 131 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 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 130 kg more than 1975 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Fiat 131 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 131. 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 (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1975 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1975 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1975 Fiat 131 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 131 | A |
Year Released | 1975 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 128 HP |
Torque | 94 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2430 mm |