2008 Fiat Croma vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Fiat Croma is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Croma. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 Fiat Croma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Croma, 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, 2008 Fiat Croma (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Croma | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Croma | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2950 mm |
