1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 27 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 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 1415 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.
Because 1978 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 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126. 2005 Mercedes-Benz V 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 126 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | V |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 651 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3010 mm |
