1980 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 32 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1980 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat 126.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Fiat 126. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 500 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat 126. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat 126 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | R |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 3216 mm |
