1974 Lada 1200 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1974 Lada 1200. (61 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 324 kg more than 1974 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lada 1200 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 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lada 1200. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lada 1200 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1200 | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 54 L |
