1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Fiat 131 (137 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 305 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | A |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
