1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 33 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 215 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1280 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R (349 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | R |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 2245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3216 mm |
