1954 Austin A 30 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 30 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 560 kg more than 1954 Austin A 30.
Because 1954 Austin A 30 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 1954 Austin A 30. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 30. (54 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin A 30. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1954 Austin A 30 has manual transmission. 1954 Austin A 30 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 30 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 30 | A |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 802 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 28 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 58 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
