2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 131 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Fiat 131 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 1978 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 1978 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Fiat |
Model | A | 131 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1687 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 113 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1311 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2500 mm |