1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 290 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Valiant | A |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2430 mm |
