1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 370 kg more than 1977 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2440 mm |
