1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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 4,264 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1010 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1976 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1976 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | S |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 4264 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 88 L |
