1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (108 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 450 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (279 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cutlass | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4269 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2570 mm |
