1973 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 410 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1973 Chevrolet Impala 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 1973 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Impala | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Impala | A |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2570 mm |
