1976 Fiat 126 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 725 kg more than 1976 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Fiat 126 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 1976 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 126 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | A |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 54 L |
