1961 Austin A vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 855 kg more than 1961 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 V (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 2004 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | V |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 3010 mm |
