1996 Fiat Punto vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1996 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Punto, 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 S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Punto. (84 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Punto. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Punto has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Punto will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Punto | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Punto | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3090 mm |
