1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 32 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (604 HP) has 551 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1331 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 904 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 604 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 2296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3165 mm |
