1988 Fiat 126 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1988 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 697 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, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat 126 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 703 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 116 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 648 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
