2009 Fiat Idea vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2009 Fiat Idea is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 450 kg more than 2009 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Idea. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Idea | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | 420 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1246 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 159 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
