1974 Reliant Rebel 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 Reliant Rebel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Reliant Rebel would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 750 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, 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 (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Reliant Rebel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Reliant Rebel | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Reliant | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rebel | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 701 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 575 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2570 mm |
