1971 Honda Z vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1971 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 730 kg more than 1971 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Honda Z | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 355 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2570 mm |
