1978 Austin Marina vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 463 kg more than 1978 Austin Marina.
Because 1978 Austin Marina 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 1978 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Marina | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
