1997 Fiat Punto vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 774 kg more than 1997 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 E (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Punto. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Punto. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1997 Fiat Punto has manual transmission. 1997 Fiat Punto will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Punto | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Punto | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
