1981 Fiat 127 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (49 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 710 kg more than 1981 Fiat 127. 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 rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 127, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 127 | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |
