2003 Fiat Idea vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 397 kg more than 2003 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (330 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Fiat Idea has manual transmission. 2003 Fiat Idea will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1158 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2950 mm |
