1997 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (149 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 530 kg more than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Barchetta, 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 C (340 Nm) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Barchetta | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Barchetta | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2720 mm |
