1978 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 75 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Because 1978 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. 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, 1978 Ford Mustang (339 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (301 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mustang | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2570 mm |
