1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 31 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 610 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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