1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 30 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), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1060 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 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (144 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | R |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2444 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2990 mm |
