1976 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1335 kg more than 1976 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fiesta. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | A |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
