2005 Fiat Idea vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Fiat Idea is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Idea. (102 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Fiat Idea weights approximately 55 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Fiat Idea (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2005 Fiat Idea has manual transmission. 2005 Fiat Idea will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Idea | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2430 mm |
