1970 Ginetta G21 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ginetta G21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ginetta G21 would be higher. At 1,723 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Ginetta G21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Ginetta G21 (98 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Ginetta G21 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 358 kg more than 1970 Ginetta G21.
Because 1970 Ginetta G21 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 1970 Ginetta G21. 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 (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ginetta G21. (144 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ginetta G21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Ginetta G21 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ginetta | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G21 | A |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1723 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 737 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
