1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 175 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | A |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2600 mm |
