1977 Holden Statesman vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Holden Statesman (214 HP) has 155 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Holden Statesman weights approximately 425 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Holden Statesman 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 1977 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1977 Holden Statesman (400 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1977 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Holden Statesman | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Statesman | A |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5042 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 214 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2430 mm |
