2005 Fiat Idea vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Fiat Idea is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Idea. (79 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 265 kg more than 2005 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Fiat Idea. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Idea | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | C |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1366 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 62 L |
