1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (149 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 565 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
