1948 Austin A 90 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 58 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Austin A 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Austin A 90 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Austin A 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 90. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 425 kg more than 1948 Austin A 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Austin A 90 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 1948 Austin A 90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin A 90. (190 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Austin A 90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Austin A 90 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 90 | A |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
