1989 Fiat 126 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1989 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 375 kg more than 1989 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Fiat 126. 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 (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Fiat 126 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 126 | A |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| 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 | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
