1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1115 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | C |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2970 mm |
