1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 305 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | C |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2770 mm |
