1979 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 29 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1845 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 418 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 126 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | GL |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 4662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3080 mm |
