1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 485 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Fiat 126 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | A |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2830 mm |
