1955 Austin A 30 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 30 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 30. (28 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 620 kg more than 1955 Austin A 30. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Austin A 30. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 30. (54 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 30.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 30 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 30 | A |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 802 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 28 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 54 L |
