2003 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 354 kg more than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Barchetta | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Barchetta | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| 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 | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2760 mm |
