1969 Porsche 914 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Porsche 914 (101 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Porsche 914 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 366 kg more than 1969 Porsche 914.
Because 1969 Porsche 914 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 Porsche 914. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Porsche 914. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Porsche 914.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Porsche 914 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 914 | A |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
