2003 Fiat Punto vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Fiat Punto is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Punto. (70 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 925 kg more than 2003 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Punto, 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 S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Punto. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Punto | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Punto | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1251 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
