1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 121 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1961 Ford Zodiac 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 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1961 Ford Zodiac (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zodiac | A |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
