1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 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), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP) has 175 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | SL |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2560 mm |
