1972 Porsche 914 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1972 Porsche 914. (79 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1972 Porsche 914. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 400 kg more than 1972 Porsche 914. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Porsche 914 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 1972 Porsche 914. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Porsche 914. (136 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Porsche 914.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Porsche 914 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 914 | A |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1679 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
