1970 Maserati Mistral vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Maserati Mistral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Maserati Mistral would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Maserati Mistral is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Maserati Mistral (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Maserati Mistral should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Maserati Mistral weights approximately 70 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Maserati Mistral 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 Maserati Mistral. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1970 Maserati Mistral (363 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1970 Maserati Mistral will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1970 Maserati Mistral has manual transmission. 1970 Maserati Mistral will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Maserati Mistral | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mistral | A |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2780 mm |
