2009 Fiat 500 vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2009 Fiat 500. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 580 kg more than 2009 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500, 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat 500. (132 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat 500 | 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2860 mm |
