1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 365 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
