1976 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 565 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Pontiac Firebird 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 1976 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1976 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1976 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Pontiac Firebird | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Firebird | A |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5792 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2600 mm |
