1971 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 15 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz E | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
