1978 Austin Marina vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 34 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 358 kg more than 1978 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Marina | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
