1978 Ford Capri vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 35 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Capri | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Capri | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
