1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Fiat 500
To start off, 2013 Fiat 500 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2013 Fiat 500. (101 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 697 kg more than 2013 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Fiat 500, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Fiat 500. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Fiat |
| Model | SL | 500 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1072 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3546 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1628 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1519 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2301 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
