2003 Fiat Idea vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Fiat Idea. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Fiat Idea would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (451 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 373 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 497 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 486 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 451 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1158 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4724 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2766 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 66 L |
