1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 25 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 630 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | CL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2890 mm |
