1969 Abarth 1300 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Abarth 1300 (123 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Abarth 1300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 484 kg more than 1969 Abarth 1300.
Because 1969 Abarth 1300 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 1969 Abarth 1300. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Abarth 1300. (130 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Abarth 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Abarth 1300 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Abarth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1300 | A |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 636 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 54 L |
