1974 Reliant Rebel vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Reliant Rebel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Reliant Rebel would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 445 kg more than 1974 Reliant Rebel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Reliant Rebel 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 Reliant Rebel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Reliant Rebel. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1974 Reliant Rebel has manual transmission. 1974 Reliant Rebel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Reliant Rebel | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Reliant | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rebel | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 701 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 575 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2600 mm |
