1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 45 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 131 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 131 | A |
Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2444 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1145 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |