1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Fiat 131 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 131 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 195 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | A |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
