1977 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 126. (23 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1470 kg more than 1977 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 126. (39 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 126 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | A |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 54 L |
