1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1310 kg more than 1978 Fiat 126. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3090 mm |
