1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 48 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat 500. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat 500. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 2012 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Fiat |
| Model | A | 500 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1072 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3546 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1628 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2301 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
