1951 Austin A vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz A (90 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1951 Austin A. (29 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 410 kg more than 1951 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Austin A 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 1951 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz A (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A. (54 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Austin A. 2000 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1951 Austin A has manual transmission. 1951 Austin A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A | 2000 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | A |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 803 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 54 L |
