1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1620 kg more than 1980 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
