1971 Jensen SP 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 Jensen SP. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Jensen SP would be higher. At 7,206 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Jensen SP is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Jensen SP (385 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Jensen SP 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 1047 kg more than 1971 Jensen SP.
Because 1971 Jensen SP 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 1971 Jensen SP. 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, 1971 Jensen SP (557 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1971 Jensen SP will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. 1971 Jensen SP has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Jensen SP will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Jensen SP | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Jensen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SP | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7206 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 385 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1783 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
