1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 32 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 446 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1160 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 728 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | S |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3170 mm |
