1988 Fiat Tipo vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat Tipo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat Tipo would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1988 Fiat Tipo. (51 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat Tipo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 940 kg more than 1988 Fiat Tipo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Fiat Tipo, 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 SL (460 Nm) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat Tipo. (90 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat Tipo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat Tipo | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tipo | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.2 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
