1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP) has 168 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1305 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 R 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 R 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. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | R |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 221 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3220 mm |
