2009 Fiat Idea vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Fiat Idea is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Idea. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 370 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, both vehicles can yield 260 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2009 Fiat Idea has manual transmission. 2009 Fiat Idea will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat Idea | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2940 mm |
