1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 405 kg more than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. 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 (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220. (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 220 | A |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 28.1 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
