1952 Austin A vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin A would be higher. At 3,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Austin A (124 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Austin A should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Austin A weights approximately 735 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1952 Austin A (288 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1952 Austin A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Austin A | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | A |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3992 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1975 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 54 L |
