1978 Fiat Strada vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Strada would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Strada. (60 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 668 kg more than 1978 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Fiat Strada, 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 230 (205 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Strada. (91 Nm). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Strada.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Strada | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Strada | 230 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.6 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2810 mm |
