1984 Fiat 131 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 1984 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1395 kg more than 1984 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 423 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat 131. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1984 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1984 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat 131 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | GL |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3080 mm |
