1981 Fiat Strada vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Strada would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Strada. (125 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 864 kg more than 1981 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Strada, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (470 Nm) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Strada. (172 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Strada.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Strada | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Strada | SL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1844 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
