1982 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1982 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1982 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 190 kg more than 1982 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Fiat 131 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | A |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1365 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1240 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 |
