1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Fiat 131 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1981 Fiat 131 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | A |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2600 mm |
