1975 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 33 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1975 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1975 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1275 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Fiat 131. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Fiat 131 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | R |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3220 mm |
