1952 Porsche 356 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 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 445 kg more than 1952 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 Porsche 356 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 Porsche 356. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Porsche 356. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
1952 Porsche 356 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 356 | A |
Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 38 HP | 94 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 106 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1550 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 54 L |