1978 Fiat Strada vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Strada would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Strada. (60 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1192 kg more than 1978 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Fiat Strada, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Strada. (91 Nm). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Strada.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Strada | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Strada | 500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3150 mm |
