1963 Ford Zodiac vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Ford Zodiac (108 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Ford Zodiac should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 150 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1963 Ford Zodiac (191 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1963 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Ford Zodiac | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zodiac | A |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
