1988 Fiat 126 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 372 kg more than 1988 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Fiat 126 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 1988 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1988 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1988 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Fiat 126 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 126 | A |
Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 703 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 26 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 49 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2600 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |