1974 Holden Statesman vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,297 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1974 Holden Statesman. (133 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Holden Statesman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 65 kg more than 1974 Holden Statesman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Holden Statesman 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 1974 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Holden Statesman. (263 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Holden Statesman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Holden Statesman | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Statesman | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3297 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2570 mm |
