1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 380 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caprice | A |
Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2430 mm |