2001 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2001 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 498 kg more than 2001 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Fiat Barchetta | 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Barchetta | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2950 mm |
