1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,444 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Fiat 131 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 131 | A |
Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |