1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 28 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1725 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | E |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |
